Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna
sweet box
A small, suckering evergreen shrub with green or purplish stems, narrowly lanceolate mid-green leaves and clusters of small, creamy-white, fragrant flowers. Berries black
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Black | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | White | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Buxaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Suckering
- 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
- W China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained humus-rich soil in shade. Full sun may be tolerated when planted in damp soil. Also tolerant of atmospheric pollution, dry shade and neglect
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or propagate by seed sown in containers outdoors in autumn or spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
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