Davidsonia

Hine, B. 2004. Viability of Three Genera of Myrtaceae for Cultivation on the British Columbian Southwest Coast. Davidsonia. 15(3):120-126

Myrtaceae is a fascinating, evergreen woody plant family that demonstrates significant potential for horticulture in southwestern British Columbia. Among the group’s shared characteristics are showy floral parts and leaves containing oil glands. Their main centre of distribution is in Australasia, with secondary nodes in southern South America and equatorial Africa. The “type species” of the family, and notable exception, is Myrtus communis, which is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and North Africa. Besides the economic importance of this group (there are significant timber-, edible fruit-, spice- and medicinal oil-producing species), some of its members have other valuable attributes, and central among these to horticulture is public amenity. Among the Australasian members are three genera containing species that are suitable for cultivation in this cool temperate climate. These are Eucalyptus, Callistemon and Leptospermum. The species discussed below are recommended by two main points: their ornamental qualities and their hardiness.