About

Chimonanthus nitens is an evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 3 meters. It features glossy leaves that can grow as long as 10 centimeters, arranged oppositely along the stems. During the winter months, this plant produces fragrant, spidery white flowers that emerge from the leaf axils.

About the genus

Chimonanthus encompasses both evergreen and deciduous shrubs characterized by simple foliage. In winter, these plants produce fragrant, bowl-shaped flowers with numerous petals, which are succeeded by cylindrical or urn-like seed capsules.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
2.5-4 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Native to
China
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
Pruning
Cut back hard after flowering to maintain shape
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe in a coldframe, or take softwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Genrally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)