Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle)

Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) with small green leaves and purple fruit close up
Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) stem with round green leaves and tiny purple fruit clusters

Botanical name: Myrsine africana

Common names: Cape Myrtle, African Boxwood

Family: Primulaceae    (Formerly:Myrsinaceae)

Origin: South Africa

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-10

Large shrub 5-10 ft tallPlant used for bonsaiPlant form: Large bush; suitable for bonsai
Plant mature sizeMature height: 5-10 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Moderate
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsWildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
Ethnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

The small oval-shaped leaves are a glossy dark green color. Typical of this species, the upper half of the leaf edge is slightly cut with fine teeth. A very nice plant for small hedges.

Similar plants: Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle)


Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) with small green leaves and purple fruit close up
Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) showing deep green oval leaves alongside tiny purple fruit clusters
Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) with purple fruit and green leaves on woody stems plant
Myrsine africana (Cape Myrtle) showing small round purple fruit nestled among dense green oval leaves.


Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/myrsine_africana.htm
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