Myrtus ugni
Myrtus ugni · Myrtaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around myrtus ugni and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Chilean Myrtle
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen, small, aromatic
- Flowering
- May to June, white or pink flowers
- Adult size
- 150 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Grow in mild regions or in a pot to bring indoors
- Origin
- Chile
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Plant it in well-draining, light, neutral to acidic soil. Water regularly during the first year.
The common mistake
Overwatering it causes root rot, especially in winter or humid regions.
The pro's trick
Harvest the pink berries in autumn (September-October) before they turn black: they're tart and decorative.
Care
Exposure
Chilean myrtle appreciates full sun exposure for generous flowering. It can tolerate partial shade, but prolonged direct light extends and intensifies blooming. Protect it from cold and violent winds, particularly in continental climates.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer) while keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Chilean myrtle fears excess water which causes root rot; ensure good drainage.
Soil
Choose rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mixture of potting soil and coarse sand works well. Adding organic matter (well-decomposed compost) improves structure and fertility.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer once or twice monthly during the growing season (April to September). Stop feeding in winter to allow the plant to enter dormancy.
Pruning and cutting
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove dead or unsightly branches. Severe pruning slows growth; prefer gentle, regular cuts.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites in dry environments. Root rot can occur if soil is waterlogged. Ensure good drainage and air circulation. Few major diseases if growing conditions are respected.
Did you know?
Chilean myrtle, locally called "uña de gato," has been used for centuries by Andean populations to flavor beverages and dishes. Its small red berries, delicately perfumed, were a prized delicacy in South America long before European arrival.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Blue gumEucalyptus globulus
- MyrtleMyrtus communis
- MānukaLeptospermum scoparium
- Strawberry guavaPsidium cattleianum
- Snow gumEucalyptus pauciflora
- Woolly TeatreeLeptospermum lanigerum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.