Topic summary
Myrtus
Myrtus (commonly called myrtle) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Myrtaceae. It was first described by Swedish botanist Linnaeus in 1753.
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 communisL. – Common myrtle; native to the Mediterranean region in southern Europe
- Myrtus nivelleiBatt. & Trab. – Saharan myrtle; native to the Saharan mountains of northern Africa