About
Sarcococca saligna, the willow-leaf sweet box, is a compact, suckering, evergreen shrub to 1 m with tapering, lance-shaped, glossy leaves up to 13 cm long on erect then arching stems. Tiny, greenish-white, slightly scented flowers in winter are followed by purple berries. A rewarding and ornamental sweet box 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 sun, 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 hardinessH4
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 toW Himalaya
FragranceFlower
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
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 semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or propagate by seed sown in containers outdoors in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus