Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl.
Myrrh Tree
Spiny shrub or small tree considered the primary source of the highest-quality commercial myrrh. Native to Somalia, Ethiopia and the Arabian Peninsula, it produces an oleoresin of intense and complex aroma that has been revered since ancient Egypt. Its taxonomy is closely linked to Commiphora molmol, with which it shares morphological and chemical characters.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Commiphora |
| Growth Habit | Small tree or much-branched deciduous shrub, 3-5 m tall, with exfoliating succulent bark and spine-tipped branches. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) per IUCN, but locally endangered by unsustainable resin overexploitation. |
| pH Target | 7,0-8,5 |
| Type | Sandy-stony, calcareous, extremely well draining. |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-stony, calcareous, extremely well draining.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
S
E
Every 4-6 years; in a deep pot due to the taproot.
Very diluted mineral fertiliser (low-nitrogen NPK) once a year in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Ingestion of large amounts of resin can cause hepatic toxicity. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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"The synonymy between C. myrrha and C. molmol is an unresolved taxonomic controversy. Nees originally described the taxon as Balsamodendrum myrrha (1833); Engler transferred it to Commiphora. Some modern authors (Thulin & Claeson, 1991) consider C. molmol a synonym of C. myrrha, while others maintain both as separate species. Consult RN-CMPH-00011 and RN-CMPH-00013 for full context."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.