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Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis
sweet box
A spreading, evergreen shrub with highly scented white flowers in winter, and slightly aromatic, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. This tough shade-tolerant...
2 litre pot
available to order from summer
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Plant description
A spreading, evergreen shrub with highly scented white flowers in winter, and slightly aromatic, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. This tough shade-tolerant shrub provides much-needed structure, scent and colour, and is ideal for a shady shrub or mixed border. The flowers of Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis are followed by long-lasting, blue-black berries.
Eventual height & spread
Plant features
Position
Light shade / shade
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis:
Plant Sarcococca in moist, well-drained soil enriched with well-rotted compost. It thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shady borders, woodland gardens, or underplanting trees and shrubs. When planting, incorporate mycorrhizal fungi to promote strong root development and water well until established.
In late winter or early spring, lightly trim or prune back misplaced, leggy, or damaged shoots to maintain a neat, compact shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering the following year. After pruning, apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or leaf mould, around the base to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
While sweet box is drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells will encourage lush growth and abundant, highly fragrant flowers.
In late winter or early spring, lightly trim or prune back misplaced, leggy, or damaged shoots to maintain a neat, compact shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering the following year. After pruning, apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or leaf mould, around the base to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
While sweet box is drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells will encourage lush growth and abundant, highly fragrant flowers.
Warning
Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten
