About
This upright, evergreen shrub to about 2m with glossy, undulating, rich green leaves and small, tufty, green and white, strongly scented flowers in winter, followed by black berries.
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
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toS. India
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 a sheltered, shady position protected from severe frost
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