Overview
Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' is a evergreen shrub in the genus Sarcococca, part of the Buxaceae family. Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, underplanting and shade garden. It is native to China.
About
Sarcococca hookeriana, the Himalayan sweet box, is a species of flowering plant in the box family Buxaceae, native to China, Afghanistan, North East India, Bhutan and Nepal. It is a low-growing evergreen shrub, usually growing to 12–24 in (30–61 cm) high.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sarcococca hookeriana
About the genus
Sarcococca, nicknamed sweet box or Christmas box, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Buxaceae. native to eastern and southeastern Asia, and the Himalayas, with one species native to Central America. They are slow-growing, monoecious, evergreen shrubs 1–2 m (3–7 ft) tall.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sarcococca", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sarcococca
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sarcococca
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- acidic, neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- evergreen shrub
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, underplanting, shade garden
- Native to
- China
- Fragrance
- strongly fragrant flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem'
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered positions in partial or full shade; tolerant of dry shade once established.
- Pruning
- Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape.
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem'?
Prefers sheltered positions in partial or full shade; tolerant of dry shade once established.
Where is the best place to plant Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem'?
Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' need?
Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem'?
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape.
Is Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' hardy in the UK?
Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem'?
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
More in the Sarcococca genus
Browse all Sarcococca →
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