Prickly Myrtle (Rhaphithamnus Spinosus) is a perennial shrub in the Verbenaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Rhaphithamnus spinosus is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to South America, notable for its prickly stems, lavender flowers, and purple fruits.

Prickly Myrtle

Prickly Myrtle

Rhaphithamnus Spinosus

Rhaphithamnus spinosus is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to South America, notable for its prickly stems, lavender flowers, and purple fruits.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, ornamental shrub, wildlife attractor

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Prickly Myrtle

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Prickly Myrtle
Prickly Myrtle detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Verbenaceae
Genus:Rhaphithamnus