MYRTUS subsp. tarentina

It prefers positions of partial shade or even total shade and fresh, fertile, humid, but well-drained soils. In coastal gardens, it is preferable to choose a sheltered position, because it does not tolerate the presence of wind, especially if it is brackish. It can tolerate winter frost and a few degrees below zero, but only if not prolonged. In these cases, the entire aerial part may be missing, but the plant will be able to re-emerge and grow quickly at the first warmth. While enduring more or less long periods of drought, certainly constant and abundant summer wetting improve its appearance and prolong the blooms. In spring it is advisable to eliminate dry, broken or bulky parts; sometimes it is suggested to carry out a drastic pruning that aims to reduce all the stems of the plant to 1/3, in order to favor its thicker growth and increase its subsequent summer flowering. It can be suitable to cultivation in rather large containers and pots on terraces and balconies, preferably in positions well sheltered from the winds. In the open ground, it knows how to become the absolute protagonist of corners of the garden in a short time, creating large spots able to satisfy the sight with its rich blooms, as well as the sense of smell with its incomparable smell.