Myrtle Flower Symbolism: Love, Purity, and Beyond

Don’t mistake the true Myrtle (Myrtus) for its distant cousin, the Crepe Myrtle—this plant has its own unique story to tell. Known for its enduring symbolism of love and devotion, the Myrtle flower carries a rich history that spans centuries. From its deep religious significance to its prominent role in Ancient Greek mythology, this charming bloom has always held a special place in human culture. Even today, Myrtle flowers are widely featured in marriage bouquets and floral arrangements, making them a timeless symbol of unity and affection. In this guide, I’ll explore everything you need to know about Myrtle flower meaning, its fascinating cultural roots, and its lasting importance worldwide.

Etymological Meaning

The name Myrtle has stood the test of time, remaining almost unchanged for centuries and consistently tied to the plant itself.

Its roots trace all the way back to ancient Greece, where the Greeks borrowed the name from Semitic sources that shared a linguistic connection with myrrh—the fragrant resin used in ritual purification.

The Myrtle Flower and Queen Victoria

In the Victorian era, the “language of flowers” (also known as “floriography“) was a popular way to convey secret messages and sentiments without the use of words.

Flowers, plants, and specific floral arrangements expressed feelings that society might have considered inappropriate or too forward to state openly.

In the Victorian language of flowers, the myrtle flower symbolized love and affection. People associated it so closely with love and marital fidelity that brides would often include myrtle in their bouquets, and Queen Victoria herself included a sprig of myrtle in her wedding bouquet. Other royal brides have continued this tradition over the years.

In addition to its connections with weddings, myrtle was believed to bring good luck and happiness to the home, making it a cherished plant in many Victorian gardens.

Kate Middleton’s Wedding Bouquet

In her 2011 wedding to Prince William, Kate Middleton’s bouquet was a thoughtful blend of tradition and personal significance.

Designed by Shane Connolly, the bouquet featured myrtle, lily of the valley, sweet William, ivy, and hyacinth. The inclusion of myrtle is a longstanding royal custom, symbolizing love and marriage, with sprigs traditionally sourced from Queen Victoria’s garden.

Myrtle Flowers in Greek Mythology

The oldest meanings ascribed to the Myrtle plant come from Ancient Greece. The flower was considered sacred to Aphrodite, which gives it a potent layer of love symbolism. 

Garlands of the foliage and blooms were also sacred to the goddess Demeter. This shared symbolism connected farming with romantic love through their common theme of devotion. 

Myrtle Flowers in Judaism

In Judaism, Myrtle is one of the four species of plants used to celebrate the festival of Sukkot. It’s a holiday commemorating the agricultural cycle that ancient Jewish field workers followed. 

That means it’s not surprising that fragrant and attractive Myrtle branches are part of the symbolism of the event. Myrtle, in particular, plays such an important role because it is mentioned in Zechariah 1:8 in the Torah. It’s part of the story of a prophet of God who is described as standing in a grove of Myrtle trees. 

The religious symbolism of this plant has expanded to include watchfulness, devotion to faith, and the endurance to withstand challenges. Other religious sources link Myrtle’s fragrance to the spreading of good works in the world, making the plant a symbol of purity and goodwill.

Ceremonial and Spiritual Uses

Myrtle is used in wedding bouquets throughout Europe. Various folklore explanations hint at a common symbolism of romance, devotion, and love. 

Some modern spiritual movements use the Myrtle flower to symbolize purification and rebirth. Its fragrance is commonly used in women’s perfumes and even some unisex fragrances. 

As a name for fictional characters, it’s found in works of literature from The Great Gatsby to Meet Mr. Mulliner by P. G. Wodehouse.

Healing Properties

Myrtle’s reputation as a plant of healing dates back to ancient times, when it was celebrated for its medicinal and purifying qualities.

The leaves and berries of the Myrtle plant were often used in herbal remedies, with applications ranging from soothing respiratory ailments to treating skin conditions.

In Ancient Greece, Myrtle was a symbol of vitality, with its essential oils incorporated into balms and ointments believed to restore strength and vigor.

The plant’s purifying properties made it a staple in rituals aimed at cleansing both the body and spirit. Myrtle oil was also thought to have antimicrobial properties, making it a natural choice for promoting health and hygiene in an era without modern medicine.

In Roman culture, baths infused with Myrtle were used for relaxation and skin rejuvenation, tying the plant to themes of renewal and well-being.

These uses solidified Myrtle’s symbolic connection to health, purity, and vitality.

Myrtle Flowers in Art and Literature

Myrtle has made its mark in art and literature across centuries, and it is celebrated for its symbolism and beauty. Here are some notable references:

Hebrew Scriptures: Myrtle is referenced in the Book of Isaiah (55:13) as a symbol of divine blessing, peace, and abundance, making it a recurring theme in religious texts and sermons over centuries.

Elizabethan Poetry: Myrtle appears as a symbol of chastity and love in Shakespeare’s plays and poetry. For instance, it is subtly referenced in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Renaissance Art: Myrtle often appears in Renaissance paintings, particularly those depicting Venus (Aphrodite). Artists like Botticelli used myrtle in allegorical compositions to emphasize themes of love and fertility.

Pre-Raphaelite Movement: Myrtle was a favorite among pre-Raphaelite painters who incorporated it into their works as a motif symbolizing innocence and natural beauty.

Suitable Gifting Occasions

You most commonly use Myrtle for wedding decorations and bouquets because it has a strong association with romance and love.

However, it’s also suitable for anniversary gifts and other flower arrangements for romantic and devotional occasions. 

Thanks to the white color of the flowers offering a subtle meaning of purity and rebirth, it can also be an excellent floral gift for someone starting something new.

Wrapping Up

The myrtle flower is much more than a beautiful plant—it’s a symbol deeply rooted in love, devotion, and peace. With connections to mythology, religion, and cultural traditions, myrtle has carried its meaning across centuries and continents. From wedding bouquets to art and literature, its timeless appeal continues to inspire. The myrtle flower remains a cherished emblem of beauty and significance, whether as a symbol of eternal love or a nod to purity and resilience.