Sarcococca hookeriana var. hookeriana
sweet box
S. hookeriana var. hookeriana is a suckering evergreen shrub forming a compact thicket of upright stems bearing leathery, lance-shaped or elliptic leaves and tiny, but very fragrant white flowers in late winter, followed by black berries
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Black | ||
| Autumn | Green | Black | ||
| Winter | White | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Buxaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Suckering
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or propagate by seed sown in containers outdoors in autumn or spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
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