Commiphora myrrha
 
Common names: Myrrh, Myrrh Tree, Common Myrrh, African Myrrh, Somali Myrrh, Arabian Myrrh, Gum Myrrh, Hirabol, Bol, Balsam Tree.
 
Description:
Commiphora myrrha is a small, thorny, drought-tolerant tree or shrub native to arid regions of northeastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It has a distinctive swollen, often irregular trunk and peeling grey-brown bark. When the bark is wounded, it produces an aromatic resin known as myrrh, which has been valued for centuries for incense, fragrance and traditional uses. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and well-drained, rocky soils.
 
Germination tips:
Soak fresh seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours. Sow 0.5–1 cm deep in a very well-draining sandy mix. Keep warm at around 25–30°C and maintain light moisture without waterlogging. Germination can be slow and erratic, often taking several weeks. Give seedlings plenty of sunlight once established.