SafePlants

Myoporum: A Versatile Genus

Myoporum is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae (formerly Myoporaceae). This genus comprises approximately 30 species, with a significant number native to Australia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Myoporum
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (formerly Myoporaceae)
• Myoporum is the type genus of the family Myoporaceae.

Myoporum parvifolium

Myoporum parvifolium is a popular species within this genus, known by several common names:

• Scientific Name: Myoporum parvifolium
• Common Names: Creeping Boobialla, Creeping Myoporum, Dwarf Native Myrtle, Small Leaved Myoporum, Prostrate Myoporum

Cultivars of M. parvifolium include 'Pink', 'Putah Creek', 'White' and 'Yareena'.

Myoporum laetum

• Scientific Name: Myoporum laetum
• Common Names: Ngaio, Mousehole Tree

The cultivar 'Clean n Green' is resistant to myoporum thrips.

Myoporum floribundum

A spectacular member of the genus that extends from China, Japan, Mauritius, and New Zealand to Australia.

Myoporum sandwicense

• Scientific Name: Myoporum sandwicense
• Common Names: Naio, Naeo, Naieo, Bastard Sandalwood

Myoporum bateae

Described and named a century ago by Baron Ferdinand von Mueller.

Myoporum insulare

An evergreen shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in).

Myoporum platycarpum

A very distinguishable large shrub or small tree.

Myoporum turbinatum

• Common Names: Salt Myoporum

Myoporum caprarioides

Native to Western Australia.

Myoporum Acuminatum

Distribution and Habitat

• Many Myoporum species are native to Australia.
• Myoporum laetum is endemic to New Zealand.
• Myoporum floribundum extends from China, Japan, Mauritius, and New Zealand to Australia.
• Myoporum sandwicense is found in Hawaii.

Ecological Role

• Myoporum laetum is considered an invasive plant in California.
• Myoporum turbinatum is threatened.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Myoporum parvifolium is a low-growing, evergreen, perennial ground cover.
• It is known for its rapid growth and ability to cover a wide area.
• It typically grows to a height of 3-6 inches and can spread up to 9 feet. Some varieties can spread wider, such as 'Putah Creek', which can spread up to 15 feet.
• Myoporum species generally have fleshy leaves.
• They produce small white flowers, often with purple spots.
• Myoporum insulare is an evergreen shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in).
• Myoporum sandwicense is a shrub or small tree that grows from 1 to 10 m.

Considerations for Pets

• Myoporum laetum has been shown to cause experimental intoxication in sheep.

Considerations for Children

• Medicinal remedies were also acquired from Myoporum species, but details of preparation and usage are absent, and some plants are poisonous, so consumption by children would be unwise.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Myoporum species are susceptible to galling by thrips, particularly Myoporum laetum.

Historical and Traditional Uses

• Aboriginal people utilized Myoporum species for various purposes, including medicinal remedies and as a minor food source.

Additional Resources

• UC Home and Landscape Guidelines for control of Myoporum Thrips