Myrtle

Myrtus (commonly called myrtle) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. It was first described by Swedish botanist Linnaeus in 1753. Myrtle was described much earlier in Leviticus, as part of the feast and observance of Sukkot. It has long been used as a medicinal herb in traditional practices.

Over 600 names have been proposed in the genus, but nearly all have either been moved to other genera or been regarded as synonyms. Two species are currently accepted:

Myrtus communis L. – Common myrtle; native to the Mediterranean region in southern Europe

Myrtus nivellei Batt. & Trab. – Saharan myrtle; native to the Saharan mountains of northern Africa