myrtus ugni nz

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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Myrtus ugni, also known as Chilean Guava or New Zealand Cranberry, is a delight for Kiwi gardeners seeking a unique, edible shrub. Renowned for its dainty foliage, fragrant white-pink flowers, and delicious ruby-red berries, Myrtus ugni NZ grows exceptionally well in New Zealand’s climate, thriving in gardens from Northland to the deep south. This hardy evergreen shrub fits beautifully into both ornamental landscapes and edible gardens, making it a fantastic addition to hedges, borders, and containers.

Myrtus ugni

Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava, New Zealand Cranberry) is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its glossy foliage, delicate white flowers, and sweet aromatic berries. Well suited to NZ conditions, it produces small red fruits that are highly flavoursome. Ideal for hedging, containers, and edible gardens, it offers both ornamental appeal and a rewarding harvest.

Buy Myrtus ugni

From $15.11

A Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava) plant with small green leaves and red berries.

Suited to regions:
Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:
Shrubs
Height:
1.50 m
Spread:
1.00 m
Flowering time:
Summer, Autumn
Tolerances:
Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses:
Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles:
Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock

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Why Choose Myrtus ugni (New Zealand Cranberry)?

Myrtus ugni NZ is a plant with year-round appeal. In spring and summer, small, bell-shaped flowers cover the bush, attracting friendly pollinators. By autumn, the plant rewards you with an abundance of sweet, aromatic berries—perfect for eating straight off the bush or turning into jams, jellies, and desserts. Its compact, bushy habit (typically 1–1.5 metres tall) makes it practical for smaller gardens while providing excellent structure for borders and low hedges.

Growing Conditions for Myrtus ugni in New Zealand

Perfect for the New Zealand climate, Myrtus ugni prefers a sunny or semi-shaded spot with well-drained soil. It’s tolerant of light frosts and coastal conditions, so it works well in city gardens as well as rural shelterbelts. Mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and moist, and trim lightly after fruiting to encourage a dense shape. For gardeners who appreciate year-round greenery, its glossy leaves provide a lush backdrop even through winter.

Plant Companions and Alternatives

Enhance your shrub border with relatives and companions to Myrtus ugni. Consider planting alongside Myrtus Glanleam Gold, which brings a golden glow to the garden, or the classic Myrtus communis for its aromatic foliage. If you enjoy a splash of variegation, Myrtus communis Variegata is another superb choice. For added year-round interest, mix in shrubs like Helichrysum Red Jewel, Sarcococca Humilis (Sweet Box) for winter fragrance, or Corokia 'Frosted Chocolate' for its bronzed foliage. These combinations create a varied, resilient, and beautiful shrubbery.

Tips for Harvesting and Using New Zealand Cranberry

One of the greatest joys of growing Myrtus ugni NZ is harvesting its sweet berries. Typically ripening in late summer to early autumn, the berries are best picked when fully red and fragrant. Enjoy them fresh, scatter on porridge or salads, or transform your harvest into homemade jams and syrups. The berries store well in the fridge for a week or two.

Shop Myrtus ugni NZ and Related Shrubs

If you’re searching for a hardy, attractive, and edible shrub, Myrtus ugni NZ deserves a place in your garden. Pair it with beautiful companions from our wider range, including Azalea Tico Tico and Pittosporum James Stirling, for a truly vibrant landscape. Explore our full collection to discover your next favourite garden shrub.

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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.