Sarcococca confusa – Christmas Box

Also known as sweet box for its lovely winter scent, Sarcococca confusa is a small to medium-sized, slow-growing, evergreen shrub with a dense, rounded habit. The small, oval pointed leaves are a deep, glossy green. From January to March, tiny, tassel-like, ivory-white flowers appear, clustered among the leaves, but their sweet vanilla-like scent is the glory of this otherwise rather modest shrub, scenting the air for some distance. The flowers are followed by black berries. Plant near a door or gateway to enjoy the lovely scent to the full. Tolerates dry soil and urban pollution, and can be clipped to shape. An easy, reliable, trouble-free shrub, Christmas box holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Humus-rich, well drained soil, preferably moisture-retentive
Position: Partial shade, deep shade
Season of interest: All year, late winter in particular
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: up to 5’ (1.5m) Spread: up to 5’ (1.5m)