Myrtle Bushes
The name "myrtle" is assigned to several plants, including wax myrtle, crapemyrtle and myrtle, which is not a bush at all but a creeping ground cover more commonly known as vinca. To further complicate matters, both wax myrtle and crapemyrtle grow rapidly to heights of 20 feet or more, making them seem more like a tree than a bush. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wax Myrtle
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Wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) is an evergreen shrub that grows in areas with warm, mild climates. It produces glossy green, elongated leaves year-round and flowers in the spring, followed by faintly aromatic, waxy berries in late summer. The bush grows as much as 5 feet in one summer and can reach 15 to 20 feet high and wide. It tolerates salt, heavy soils and pollution but is not tolerant of frost. Plant it in full sun to partial shade in acidic, slightly moist soil. In alkaline soils, the plant develops iron chlorosis, or yellowing of the leaves.
Crapemyrtle
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Crapemyrtle grows throughout the South and is known for its lovely pink, white, red or purple blossoms in spring and summer. Crapemyrtle bushes also have distinctive reddish bark and brown fruit pods for winter interest. Crapemyrtle tolerates urban conditions and poor soils, making it a good choice along a street or in urban areas. Crapemyrtle grows quickly, reaching 20 to 30 feet, although some compact varieties are available. Plant crapemyrtle in full sun and slightly moist, acidic soil. Prune it lightly only to preserve its natural, open form.
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Myrtle
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Myrtle, or vinca minor, is a shade-loving ground cover that is hardy throughout most of the U.S. It generally grows 6 to 8 inches high, as a low, open ground cover or in bush form. Plant it in partial shade, in moist, slightly acidic soil. Myrtle grows well under trees but can become invasive. Cut it back annually to control its growth.
Considerations
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Wax myrtle and crapemyrtle grow in mild, warm climates only and will not thrive in the North. Myrtle ground cover is hardy to at least U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 5. All myrtles benefit from acidic, slightly moist soil. Select one adapted to your area for best growth.
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