Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of evergreen shrub or tree: "myrtle" refers to any plant belonging to the genus Myrtus, characterized by its persistent, glossy green leaves and often fragrant flowers, typically blue-violet or white.
   • A common ornamental plant: It is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage and flowers, and sometimes used as ground cover.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The garden path was bordered by fragrant myrtle.
  • She picked a sprig of myrtle with its small blue flowers for the bouquet.

Advanced Usage

• "Common myrtle" (Myrtus communis): The most well-known species, often associated with classical symbolism in mythology and literature.
  • Common myrtle is often mentioned in ancient Greek texts.
• "Crape myrtle": Note: This is a distinct plant (genus ) and not a true myrtle, but the name is a common variant.
  • The crape myrtle in the yard blooms with pink flowers in summer. (This is listed as a variant, not the core definition.)

Variants and Related Words

• Myrtaceous (adj): Of or relating to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae).
  • Eucalyptus and clove are also myrtaceous plants.
• Myrtus (n): The botanical genus name for true myrtle.

Synonyms

• Periwinkle (in some regional contexts for , but not a true synonym; it is a different groundcover plant).
• Bog myrtle (Myrica gale): A different shrub also sometimes called "myrtle."

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To wear the myrtle": An archaic or literary phrase symbolizing love, peace, or victory, stemming from classical traditions.
  • The poet wrote of the champion wearing the myrtle wreath.

Noun

1. any evergreen shrub or tree of the genus Myrtus
2. widely cultivated as a groundcover for its dark green shiny leaves and usually blue-violet flowers