Myrica, known commonly as bog myrtle, has a long and storied history both in gardens and beyond. This aromatic genus is famed for its narrow green leaves that release a distinctive resinous scent when brushed, a fragrance that has been appreciated for centuries in both practical and ornamental settings. In spring, Myrica produces clusters of brownish-yellow catkins, adding subtle seasonal interest before small nut-like fruits develop later in the year.

For gardeners, Myrica is especially valuable in damp or boggy soils where other shrubs might falter. Its suckering habit makes it excellent for naturalistic plantings, wildlife-friendly borders and waterside gardens. Hardy and easy-going once established, bog myrtle is not just functional but attractive too—bringing scent, texture and a whisper of the wild into cultivated spaces. With its resilience and charm, Myrica is a genus that continues to earn a quiet but devoted following.