Myrtus Communis The Common Myrtle This Plant Is Supposed To Be A

native of western Asia, but now grows abundantly in Italy, Spain,

and the south of France. Among the ancients the myrtle was held

sacred to Venus and was a plant of considerable importance,

wreaths of it being worn by the victors of the Olympic games and

other honored personages. Various parts of the plant were used in

medicine, in cookery, and by the Tuscans in the preparation of

myrtle wine, called _myrtidanum_. It is still used in perfumery,

and a highly perfumed distillation is made from the flowers. The

fruits are very aromatic and sweet, and are eaten fresh or dried

and used as a condiment.