Nutmeg myrtle, Grey Myrtle, Ironwood, Cinnamon myrtle
Backhousia myrtifolia
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A tall shrub or small tree. It grows 7-8 m tall. It has a slender trunk. It spreads to 1.5-3 m across. The leaves are egg-shaped and pointed. They are dark green and shiny above and paler underneath. The leaves are 2.5-7 cm long by 1-2.5 cm wide. New growth is hairy and often pink. The flowers are white and fluffy. They are 1.5-2 cm across. They are produced in clusters near the ends of branches. The fruit is a capsule enclosed by fleshy sepals. These are yellowish-green.
There are 7-13 Backhousia species. They occur in Australia.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It grows best in part shade. It responds to fertilising. It needs abundant water. It needs moist well drained soil. It can grow from tropical to temperate climates. It is only slightly damaged by frost when young. It suits hardiness zones 9-10. In Melbourne Botanical Gardens. Mt Cootha Botanical Gardens. Arboretum Tasmania.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), North America, Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The leaves are used for seasoning. They have a cinnamon scent and are used for teas and flavouring sweet dishes. The leaves can be used fresh or dried and ground.
Edible parts
Leaves - flavouring
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings. Because seedlings often do not thrive it is best grown from cuttings.