Fragrant Sweet Box Sarcococca ruscifolia

Fragrant Sweet Box is a broadleaf evergreen, low growing, dense shrub with a mature height of 4 feet and an equal width. It produces fragrant white flowers in late winter and retains attractive green foliage year round.  The plant is drought tolerant with a slow to moderate growth rate and will spread from suckers. While it is not as cold hardy as some sarcococca species, it does do well grown outside in USDA zones 7 through 9. It will make an excellent low hedge or groundcover in the landscape and is particularly resistant to damage by deer. Consider locating this shrub in areas where the fragrant flowers can be appreciated (for example, near doors, sidewalks or foundations). The genus name comes from the Greek words sarkos meaning flesh and kokkos meaning a berry in reference to the fleshy fruits. The species name means having leaves like the genus Ruscus (butcher's broom).

Fragrant Sweet Box grows best in acidic, organically rich, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. The leaves tend to lose luster and may burn in full sun. Consistent moisture and a good mulch will help the plant succeed. Prune in spring after flowering to maintain attractive shape and desired height.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests. Scale may be an issue.

VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I:  Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II:  Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University