The Story
Plant Bio
Backhousia myrtifolia, known as cinnamon myrtle, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to eastern Australian rainforest margins, typically reaching fifteen feet in cultivation. The glossy, deep green leaves release a distinct cinnamon-like aroma when crushed or bruised.
In spring and summer, the canopy is covered in small, fluffy clusters of cream-colored flowers dominated by long, prominent stamens. The young foliage emerges with a light green or bronze-tinted flush, contrasting against the mature dark green leaves.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
180"
Width
120"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Eastern Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 6 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with deep, well-draining loamy or sandy soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
- Water thoroughly at planting and maintain consistent moisture until the root system is established.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.
Pro Tip
Prune lightly immediately after summer flowering to maintain a dense, bushy habit; cutting deeply into old, leafless wood prevents reliable bud break and leaves bare patches.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells to maintain consistent soil moisture.
- Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer formulated for native plants in early spring.
- Protect young plants from hard freezes using frost cloth or temporary cover.
Don't
- Do not allow the soil to become waterlogged, as the roots are highly sensitive to poor drainage.
- Avoid heavy shearing or hedging into old, bare wood.
- Do not use standard high-phosphorus fertilizers, which can damage the sensitive root system.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cinnamon Myrtle questions
What zones can Cinnamon Myrtle grow in?
Cinnamon Myrtle is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Cinnamon Myrtle bloom?
Cinnamon Myrtle typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cinnamon Myrtle need full sun?
Cinnamon Myrtle does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cinnamon Myrtle drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cinnamon Myrtle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Backhousia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Cinnamon Myrtle with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.