About
Sarcococca hookeriana, sweet box, is a small, bushy, suckering evergreen shrub with lime-green, lance-shaped or oval leaves 4�6 cm long. Very perfumed, tiny, creamy-white flowers are produced in winter, followed by glossy, black berries. A beautiful and rewarding winter-fragrant shrub for a shaded or sunny position.
About the genus
Sarcococca, the sweet boxes, 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. Excellent plants for winter fragrance in a range of garden positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toHimalaya
FragranceFlower
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 16456,sarcococca-saligna,Sarcococca saligna,willow-leaf sweet box,Sarcococca saligna
Care notes
CultivationGrow 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
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus