Myrtus communis subsp. communis 'Anne McDonald'
Common name(s): myrtle, true myrtle
Description: evergreen shrub; an outstanding myrtle selected from the Elk Rock garden of renowned Portland gardener, Lady Anne Kerr McDonald (1906-2001). A large myrtle by West Coast standards to 8 ft. or more, eventually producing a thick, woody trunk. In extremely severe winters the plant may freeze down to the base but will often send up many new shoots come spring. Broad, aromatic leaves and relatively large, fragrant white star flowers in summer that ripen into blue-black berries by autumn. Berries and leaves have been used since ancient times in medicine, cooking, and rituals. Known as 'the wedding herb' since Roman times and still a common addition to bridal bouquets.
Height: to 8 ft. Spread: to 5 ft.
Position: full sun and well-draining soil
Uses: culinary- to flavor meat, liqueurs, stews and stuffings, medicine, ornamental- as a specimen plant or low hedge
Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below
Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought
Care: no special care needed, can be pruned in spring or summer to reshape
Notes: around 8 cultivars of M. communis subsp. communis were brought to the U.S. in the 19th and 20th century and it is possible that the 'Anne McDonald' is one of those original 8 since there are no records associated with the specimen found in her garden.