Skip to main content
close x

Key To Map

Choose the categories you would like to display on the map.

Choose the categories to be display on the map

Bog myrtle

Bog myrtle

Bog myrtle is very scarce in England, growing only in the New Forest and Dorset heaths, parts of the south- west and a few scattered locations in East Anglia and further north. It is uncommon in Wales, but more widespread throughout Scotland. In the New Forest it is very common and forms large stands in the wettest parts of bogs.

Bog myrtle leaves have a resinous, balsamic fragrance and the plant has had many uses. For example, it was used to flavour beer and to add scent to candles, and it is a very effective traditional insect repellent.

One old name for bog myrtle is ‘sweet gale’ and there are a few places in England named after it, for example Galsworthy in Devon.

The small bushes of bog myrtle are a characteristic feature of the wetter parts of the New Forest and can easily be seen. It produces small, orange-coloured catkins in the spring.


ID Tip

ID Tip

Bog myrtle is a low bush with untoothed leaves. The scent of a crushed leaf is easily recognisable - it smells medicinal or clinical

Newsletter Image

Email

Newsletter

6

Free

Six free walking routes when you sign up for New Forest Newsletter


Subscribe to New Forest National Park Authority

By entering your email below you are consenting to us sending you newsletters. To unsubscribe, email communications@newforestnpa.gov.uk. More info: www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/privacy-cookies


I think you mistyped your email
Your interests (tick at least one)










Please select one

By signing up to this form you are consenting to receive emails from us. Each email will contain a link to your personal reference settings where you can opt-out or change which emails you receive from us. Please read our Privacy Policy for more information about how we use data.

Subscribe to New Forest National Park Authority

Thanks, your subscription has been confirmed. You've been added to our list and your New Forest walking pack is on its way to you, including a link to download our free app.