Myrtles (Backhousia myrtifolia, Bot. Mag. 71: t. 4133. 1845)

Family: Myrtaceae

Author: Hook.

Bibliography: Bot. Mag. 71: t. 4133. 1845

Year: 1845

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Backhousia

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Queensland to New South Wales

Description

The Myrtle, scientifically referred to as Backhousia myrtifolia, is an intriguing member of the Myrtaceae family. First documented in detail by Hook. in the Botanical Magazine in 1845, Myrtles have since captivated botanists and horticulturists alike with their distinctive characteristics and versatile applications.

Endemic to the coastal forests and woodlands stretching from southeastern Queensland to New South Wales, Backhousia myrtifolia thrives in these lush, temperate climates. This distribution allows the plant to contribute significantly to the ecological diversity of these regions.

Myrtles are known for their appealing aesthetic qualities. The plant often showcases clusters of exquisite, aromatic white flowers that bloom seasonally, thus adding a touch of elegance to its native landscapes. These flowers, coupled with the plant’s lush, glossy foliage, make it particularly valued for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks.

In addition to their ornamental value, Myrtles have also garnered attention for their potential uses in traditional medicine and modern pharmacology. The essential oils extracted from Backhousia myrtifolia are investigated for their antimicrobial properties, highlighting the plant’s potential contribution to health sciences.

Adaptable and resilient, Myrtles can grow in various soil types as long as there is adequate drainage. They show a remarkable ability to withstand different environmental conditions, making them a hardy selection for both natural and cultivated gardens. Their growth habit ranges from low shrubs to small trees, offering versatility in landscaping designs.

In sum, Backhousia myrtifolia, or Myrtle, stands out not only for its botanical beauty but also for its ecological and potential medicinal benefits. Its presence from southeastern Queensland to New South Wales underscores its adaptability and significant contribution to the regions it inhabits.

Common Names

Eng: carrol, carrol ironwood, grey myrtle, ironwood
En: Myrtles, Carrol, Carrol ironwood, Grey myrtle, Ironwood

Synonyms

• Backhousia riparia (Hook. & Harv.)
• Backhousia australis (G.Benn.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken May 11, 2019 by Brett Bissell someguy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 20, 2022 by Isaac Keane (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 1, 2021 by Ilaria Mosti (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 10, 2022 by Ecologista Francesco (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2022 by Jonathan Gibson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 14, 2022 by Elva Condon (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3185104)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:591028-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Backhousia myrtifolia Hook. & Harv.)

Specifications

Growth