Sarcococca is a wonderful winter plant that provides a compact, dense form of glossy leaves and beautifully fragrant flowers. It will also produce small, shiny berries during the autumn and is a fantastic shrub for all year round interest.
Top Varieties
Sarcococca confusa
| Flowering time | Winter |
| Sun requirements | Full shade/partial shade |
| Hardiness | Hardy in most of the UK |
| Size | Grows to 1.5m height x 1.5m spread |
Sarcococca Dragon Gate
| Flowering time | Winter |
| Sun requirements | Full shade/partial shade |
| Hardiness | Hardy in most of the UK |
| Size | Grows to 1m height x 1m spread |
Sarcococca Winter Gem
| Flowering time | Winter |
| Sun requirements | Full shade/partial shade |
| Hardiness | Hardy in most of the UK |
| Size | Grows to 1m height x 1m spread |
Growing Guide
Planting
Plant in moist, well-drained and fertile soil to help the shrub thrive. Be certain to water thoroughly during the dryer months until your shrub is well established.
Watering
The Sarcococca prefers consistent moisture so it’s best to water deeply during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting to establish roots. Once established it’s more tolerant but will still benefit from occasional watering, especially in hot weather.
Pruning
When pruning your plant, ensure that you are only pruning to your desired size and remove any damaged or dead stems.
Contemporary Planting Ideas
If you want to appreciate the full scent of the Sarcococca, plant near your windows or by the entrance to your house.
It works wonderfully in a shady spot and look beautiful when integrated with snowdrops.
Fact
Sacococca has a nickname of ‘sweet box’, however despite it’s fragrance that’s not why it’s called that. As it is a shrub it is more a case of a ‘sweet’ surprise in the plant world.
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