How to Grow Myrtle family species

Myrtle family species

Myrtaceae (family)

shrub

The Myrtaceae family encompasses over 5,600 species of flowering plants, including eucalyptus, tea tree, guava, feijoa, and common myrtle. These plants are predominantly native to Australia, South America, and the Mediterranean, ranging from small herbaceous plants to large trees. Most are characterized by aromatic foliage, showy flowers with prominent stamens, and berry-like fruits.

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Example Myrtle family species timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Myrtle family species
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Myrtle family species
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Myrtle family species dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily minimum

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Water: Moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during establishment and growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Avoid waterlogging.

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Spacing: 24-60 depending on species and mature size inches

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Days to maturity: Varies by species; flowering begins in 2-3 years, full maturity 5-10 years

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as root ball; seeds 0.25-0.5 inches deep

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Sand or grit for drainage Compost or peat moss for organic matter Perlite for container growing

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Most Myrtaceae species thrive in USDA zones 8-11, though some hardier varieties tolerate zone 7

8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Seedling

4-8 weeks

Small plants with first true leaves emerging; tender and delicate foliage

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light. Maintain warmth (65-75°F). Protect from cold drafts.

Vegetative Growth

6-18 months

Young plant developing branching structure and increasing foliage; no flowers yet

Gradually increase sunlight. Pinch tips to encourage bushiness. Water moderately. Begin light fertilization monthly with balanced fertilizer.

Establishment

1-3 years

Plant becoming woody, developing strong root system and branch structure; still pre-flowering

Reduce watering as drought tolerance develops. Light pruning to shape. Fertilize 2-3 times during growing season. Mulch around base.

Flowering & Fruiting

3-8 months (seasonal, varies by species)

Plant producing characteristic flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy or dry fruits depending on species

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms (optional). Reduce fertilizer to encourage flowering. Maintain regular watering during fruit development.

Mature Production

Ongoing

Established plant at full size, regularly producing flowers and fruits year to year

Prune selectively for shape and airflow. Water during drought. Fertilize sparingly; established plants need little feeding. Harvest fruits regularly.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Lavender Rosemary Olive trees Cistus Santolina Ornamental grasses Mediterranean herbs

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring constantly moist soil Acid-loving plants in neutral soil conditions Nitrogen-demanding vegetables

Common Pests

Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
Increase humidity, spray foliage with water, use miticide if severe; improve air circulation
Hand-remove, apply horticultural oil or neem oil in dormant season; systemic insecticide for severe infestations
Isolate infected plants, spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; dab with rubbing alcohol on stems
Yellow sticky traps, spray undersides of leaves with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
Improve drainage, reduce watering, remove affected soil, apply fungicide; may require repotting

Uses

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Edible fruits and essential flavoring

Culinary

Many Myrtaceae species produce edible fruits including guava, feijoa, and native finger limes with distinct flavors. Leaves of certain species like myrtle are used fresh or dried in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine as aromatic seasonings. [source]

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Essential oils and traditional remedies

Medicinal

Tea tree oil (from Melaleuca alternifolia) is renowned for antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Eucalyptus and myrtle leaves contain compounds used in respiratory remedies, digestive tonics, and traditional wound care across multiple cultures. [source]

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Natural cleaning and fragrance

Household

Essential oils from eucalyptus, tea tree, and myrtle are used in natural cleaning products, diffusers, and aromatherapy. Dried leaves can freshen linens and deter insects naturally. [source]

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Ornamental landscaping and floristry

Craft

Myrtaceae species are prized ornamental plants with attractive foliage, vibrant flowers, and interesting fruits. Myrtle is classically used in wedding bouquets and formal gardens; eucalyptus foliage is popular in floral arrangements. [source]

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Native habitat and pollinator support

Wildlife

Many Myrtaceae species, particularly eucalyptus and native myrtles, are keystone plants supporting native birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects in their regions of origin. Their abundant nectar and pollen attract diverse fauna. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Harvest fruits when fully ripe and colored according to species—pick guavas, feijoas, and berries by hand when soft and fragrant. For ornamental or medicinal species like tea tree, harvest leaves in morning after dew dries but before heat. Dry leaves on screens in warm, airy location. Many species produce continuously; harvest regularly to encourage new growth.

Fun Facts

🌱 Eucalyptus trees, members of the Myrtaceae family, are the primary food source for koalas and some eucalyptus species are so fast-growing they can add 6 feet of height in a single year.
🌱 The common myrtle (Myrtus communis) has been cultivated since ancient times and holds religious significance in multiple faiths, appearing in the Bible and being sacred in Islamic tradition.
🌱 Tea tree oil from Melaleuca alternifolia, another Myrtaceae member, was used by Australian Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years before modern science validated its powerful antimicrobial properties in the 1920s.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Deadhead Full Sun Mulch True Leaves

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