Care of the shrub Myrsine africana or Cape myrtle |
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The genus Myrsine, family Myrsinaceae, comprises 200 species of plants native to tropical and subtropical regions of various continents. Some species are: Myrsine africana, Myrsine australis, Myrsine degeneri, Myrsine salicina, Myrsine tahuatensis. Common names: Cape myrtle, African boxwood. This species is native to Macaronesia, Africa and South Asia.. They are highly branched evergreen dioecious shrubs or trees that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. The leaves are leathery, shiny, aromatic, dark green, elliptical in shape and with a serrated edge. They produce small but attractive reddish or white flowers. They bloom in late spring. The fruits are edible and purple or blue; they are quite decorative. This slow-growing shrub is ideal for small gardens in the Mediterranean climate as isolated specimens, in bushy groups and to form hedges and windbreaks. Myrsine africana grow in direct sun, semi-shade and shade exposures. It does not resist cold below 8 ºC (46.4 ºF). The soil must be well drained and contain organic matter. Cape myrtle is a drought resistant plant. Water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry. Fertilize in autumn with compost, with manure or with humus. Prune in early spring to keep it compact. Myrsine africana is a resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases. African boxwood is propagated from semi-woody cuttings during the summer. |
Images of the shrub Myrsine africana or Cape myrtle |
 Myrsine africana  Myrsine africana |