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Sarcococca wallichii
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Wallich's sweet box

A loosely-clumping evergreen shrub, up to 2m tall, with glossy, lanceolate leaves, to 10cm long, on tall, arching stems. The small, scented, white winter flowers are followed by black fruits

Synonyms
Sarcococca pruniformis misapplied
Sarcococca coriacea ambig.
see moreSarcococca coriacea Müll. Arg.
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Black
Autumn Green Black
Winter White Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Buxaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Sarcococca are compact, sometimes suckering evergreen shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and tiny, fragrant creamy-white flowers in winter or spring, followed by red, purple or black berries which may persist into the following winter

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Himalaya to Myanmar

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in sun or shade sheltered from early frosts

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus

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