About
An evergreen low-growing shrub to around 60cm high with erect to arching, unbranched stems and flattened, modified shoots called cladodes with a leaf-like appearance reaching up to 18cm long, broadly elliptic to lanceolate in shape and twisted at the base. Tiny white to deep purple flowers are borne on the cladodes and may be followed by red, berry-like fruits.
About the genus
Ruscus are rhizomatous evergreen subshrubs with flattened, leaf-like cladophylls bearing small pale green flowers, followed on female or hermaphrodite plants by glossy red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Native toMadeira
Care notes
CultivationWill grow in almost any garden situation, except waterlogged ground, including dry shade. Requires a sheltered position to survive outside in winter or provide protection
PruningCut out dead stems to the base in spring
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility