Danae racemosa

RHS Plant Profile
Alexandrian laurel

Synonyms

Ruscus racemosus

Shrubs

An elegant evergreen shrub to 1.2m tall and wide, with glossy green foliage and insignificant flowers at the stem-tips, followed by red berries

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Danae is a shade-loving evergreen shrub with rich green, phylloclades (leaf-like stems) and tiny greenish flowers followed by glossy red berries
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
SW Asia to Iran

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or shade, sheltered from cold winds

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Divide from autumn to early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

pruning group 10. Cut old shoots back to ground level in spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free