Sarcococca orientalis
Chinese sweet box
A compact, bushy, evergreen shrub to 1m tall and wide. Stout shoots bear oval to lanceolate, glossy leaves, up to 9cm long, that taper to a point. Fragrant, creamy-white flowers, the males tinged pink, are borne in winter and followed by black fruits
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Black | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Black | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Cream Pink White | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical 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
- China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in light shade. Avoid dry, exposed sites
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
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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