An attractive evergreen tree, studded with flowers and with attractive peeling bark. The species epithet refers to its pointed leaves. Also known as Chilean or Southern Myrtle. Introduced 1844 by William Lobb (1809–1864).

Native to the Andes Mountains in southern Argentina, central and southern Chile. Naturalising freely in mild coastal areas, especially Cornwall, Isle of Man and southern Éire where it is considered invasive.

Monoecious. Insect-pollinated. Seeds dispersed by birds.

Medium (20m), bushy. Bark distinctive, cream and cinnamon, flaking and peeling. Twigs brown, downy. Leaves small (30x15mm), opposite, thin and leathery, dark green above, pale with a sunken downy midrib below, broad-elliptic, abruptly pointed, citrus-spicy when crushed. Flowers white, clustered among dark foliage, with bright yellow anthers, August-September. Fruits small fleshy berries (10-12mm), ripening purple-black, three-celled with 1-2 seeds each. Common Myrtle differs: smaller, less hardy, plain non-peeling bark.

Grows in a wide variety of soils provided they are well-drained. Hardy to -10°C but spring frosts can damage shoots, thriving best in full sun with shelter from cold winds.

Flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Generally healthy. Under a warming climate may become more of a nuisance in sensitive coastal habitats, given its ability to spread via prolific seed production.

Ornamental. The fruits are edible and sweet. Leaves have been traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal problems. Its timber resembles that of Common Box, being dense and hard, but is rarely available.