Sarcococca wallichii
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 misappliedSarcococca coriacea ambig.
see moreSarcococca coriacea Müll. Arg.
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| 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
H3Botanical 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
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
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