About
A compact, bushy, evergreen shrub to 1m tall and wide. perfumed, creamy-white flowers, the males tinged pink, are borne in winter and followed by black fruits. Stout shoots bear oval to lanceolate, glossy leaves, up to 9cm long, that taper to a point.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toChina
FragranceFlower
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 50661,schistostega-pennata,Schistostega pennata,,An ornamental Schistostega
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in light shade. Avoid dry, exposed sites
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus