Sarcococca ruscifolia, Fragrant Sweet Box

Sarcococca ruscifolia, commonly known as Fragrant Sweet Box, is a compact, evergreen shrub celebrated for its glossy foliage, intoxicatingly fragrant flowers, and low-maintenance nature. Native to China and Southeast Asia, it thrives in shaded gardens and adds year-round interest with its elegant form and subtle beauty.

Features

• Size & Growth: A slow-growing shrub, it typically reaches 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) in height and spread, forming a dense, mounding habit perfect for small spaces or understory plantings.
• Leaves: Lance-shaped, leathery, and dark green leaves provide a lush, polished appearance.
• Flowers: Tiny, creamy-white flowers bloom in late winter to early spring, releasing a powerful, sweet fragrance that enlivens the dormant garden.
• Fruit: Small, glossy red berries (maturing to black) appear after flowering, adding an ornamental touch and attracting birds.

Growing Requirements

• Sunlight: Thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded corners or woodland gardens.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, humus-rich soils but is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
• Water: Requires moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.

Uses

• Groundcover: Excellent for creating a lush, low-maintenance groundcover under trees or in shaded areas.
• Borders & Foundations: Its neat, compact growth makes it a popular choice for borders, foundations, and container gardening.
• Fragrance Garden: The powerful scent of its winter blooms makes it a must-have for sensory gardens near walkways or entrances.

Care Tips

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.
• Apply a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Protect from harsh, drying winds in colder climates to avoid winter leaf burn.

Special Attributes

• Winter Interest: Its fragrant flowers provide a much-needed highlight during the colder months when most plants are dormant.
• Wildlife Value: The berries attract birds, while the flowers are a nectar source for early pollinators.
• Deer-Resistant: Typically avoided by deer, making it suitable for gardens in deer-prone areas.

Size

• Comes in a 4" square, black, plastic nursery pot. Ceramic pot is for display only.