Wedding Myrtle and the History of Myrtle - A Symbol of Love and Fidelity
Common myrtle (Myrtus communis) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey. This fragrant plant, with its small glossy leaves and white star-shaped flowers, carries rich symbolism tied to love, purity, and marriage.
The Historical Roots of Myrtle
Myrtle has been linked to gods, myths, and traditions since ancient times:
- Greco-Roman mythology: The Greeks and Romans considered myrtle a sacred plant, associated with the goddesses Aphrodite and Demeter. Myrtle wreaths were used at weddings, athletic games, and celebrations.
- Judaism: In Jewish tradition, myrtle is known as hadassah and symbolizes peace, community, and good deeds. It's one of the four sacred plants of the Sukkot holiday.
- Christianity: Myrtle lost its sexual symbolism and became a symbol of purity, used at weddings and religious ceremonies.
Myrtle for Weddings - A Symbol of Love and Longevity
Since the days of Queen Victoria, myrtle has been a traditional part of English royal weddings.
- Queen Victoria's tradition: In 1858, she started the tradition of planting myrtle after every royal wedding. Myrtle has been grown at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight ever since.
- Symbolism at weddings:
- Boutonnieres and wreaths: Myrtle is worn as a wreath on the bride's head, or as a boutonniere for the groom and wedding party.
- Wedding bouquets: Myrtle's delicate white flowers and evergreen leaves decorate brides' bouquets, symbolizing fidelity and fertility.
- Decoration: It's used to decorate the altar, pews, and wedding tables.
Myrtle Weddings - Using Boxwood as an Option
Using Myrtle in Modern Wedding Décor
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Bouquets:
Myrtle is an ideal addition to wedding bouquets thanks to its small leaves and delicate flowers, which give bouquets elegance and freshness. -
Decoration:
- Garlands, wreaths, and table centerpieces.
- Decorating the altar or a wedding arch.
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Wedding traditions:
- In Nordic and German traditions, the bride wears a myrtle wreath on her head.
- It symbolizes purity, fertility, and the support of the newlyweds from all wedding guests.
The Symbolism of Myrtle - Weddings
- Love and fidelity: Its use at weddings refers to the devotion and permanence of marriage.
- Purity and fertility: Historically linked to innocence and fruitfulness.
- Connection: It symbolizes the bond between everyone taking part in the wedding ceremony.
Where Should Myrtle Be Pinned Correctly?
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Myrtle is traditionally worn on the left side of a suit or jacket lapel.
Why the left side specifically?
Proximity to the heart – myrtle symbolizes love and fidelity.
By etiquette, floral decorations are worn on the left (similar to medals and honors).
Better attachment – most jackets have a lapel designed for attaching decorations.
Tip: Pin the myrtle with a fine pin so it points slightly upward – it looks more elegant and holds its shape better.
Myrtle as Both Tradition and Beauty
Common myrtle is a fascinating plant that has held its place across many cultures for thousands of years. Whether as part of a wedding bouquet, décor, or wreath, its deep symbolism and aesthetic appearance make it an integral part of wedding ceremonies.
Myrtle for Weddings
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