sarcococca - GARDEN
What: Few shrubs reach their peak in the middle of winter, but that is precisely when Sarcococca ruscifolia, commonly called fragrant sweetbox, begins to shine. Tiny white flowers hidden amongst its ... Sarcococca confusa is a compact, evergreen shrub admired for its dark green, glossy foliage and intensely fragrant winter flowers.
Understanding the Context
The leaves are broad, smooth, and slightly rippled, giving the plant a polished, refined appearance year-round. The genus name, Sarcococca, originates from the words sarco, meaning "flesh," and kokkos, meaning "berry." The epithet, confusa, means "confused" and references their being confused with other species. Learn all about Sarcococca - choose the best ones to grow, where to buy, where to plant and care advice from RHS experts. The genus Sarcococca, commonly called Sweet Box or Christmas Box, is a collection of evergreen shrubs highly valued in the landscape for their winter presence.
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Key Insights
These plants offer interest during the colder months when most other garden elements are dormant. There are 15 species of Sarcococca, which are mostly found in the forests of China, as well as other parts of Asia. The plant's Latin name comes from the Greek sarkos (fleshy) and kokkos (seed), referring to the berries the plant produces. A low-growing evergreen shrub, Sarcococca “is an exquisite plant and practical too, putting up with neglect and atmospheric pollution,” writes Kendra. “Plant one by the front door and get to know it during the winter months.” Sarcococca is an evergreen bush with delightfully fragrant flowers in winter.
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Discover our tips for planting, cultivating, and pruning it. Sarcococca hookeriana commonly called sweetbox is a low-growing, broadleaf evergreen shrub to 5' tall that spreads, albeit slowly, by stolons to 6' wide or more over time in shady areas of the landscape. Sweetbox shrubs originate from Asia in mountainous regions. Sarcococca originates mostly in Southeast Asia, including the Himalayas. Their native habitat includes mountainous regions and woodlands. They grow naturally on the forest floor under tree canopy in moist, well-draining situations.