Sarcococca ruscifolia

sweetbox

Outstanding Qualities Few shrubs reach their peak in the middle of winter, but that is precisely when Sarcococca ruscifolia begins to shine. Tiny white flowers hidden amongst its glossy, dark-green foliage, open to release a delightful perfume of sweet vanilla. The perfume wafts in the winter air from January through February and brings to mind the smells of a Swedish bakery. Following flowering, small scarlet berries appear. This cool season charmer thrives in shade and tolerates dry shade once it is established. Place this shrub near shady entrances to revel in the winter fragrance. It can be used as a single specimen threaded among an evergreen border or planted in drifts to maximize its floral fragrance. It also thrives in woodland settings
Culture Sweetbox grows best in full to part shade in a humus-rich, fertile soil. While it tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and dark exposures, including heavy clay and dry shade, it does not tolerate water-logged soils. It is best kept out of hot afternoon sun as the intense light will yellow and burn the foliage. Plants grow slowly for the first year or two. Very little pruning is necessary, and then only to remove broken or dead branches. For a low, shady-loving hedge, set plants two feet apart and shear lightly in late-winter after flowering. If the winter is severe, it may temporary defoliate the shrub, though new leaves will emerge in spring.
Growing Habit This evergreen shrub produces upright, slightly arching branches well-covered with leaves. New canes emerge from the base of the shrub in spring to gradually muturing into a rounded, bushy shrub reaching a height and spread of three to five feet.
Hardiness USDA zones 7 to 9
Plant image
Image © Richie Steffen/Great Plant Picks