Fragrant sweet box - Sarcococca ruscifolia (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Fragrant sweet box

Fragrant sweet box (Sarcococca ruscifolia) produces tiny winter flowers with an intensely sweet fragrance. Its dark red berries turn black as they ripen in early spring and attract birds. Fragrant sweet box's reddish wood is widely used in furniture, doorframes, and even rail ties.

Scientific classification

Species

Fragrant sweet box (Sarcococca ruscifolia)

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Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Red, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Fragrant sweet box

Distribution of Fragrant sweet box

Distribution Map

Fragrant sweet box is a plant primarily native to East Asia. In the wild, its presence is predominantly seen within the temperate regions of this continent. It has, however, been introduced and cultivated in a variety of other temperate zones worldwide, broadening its range well beyond its native territory. The species is adaptable and can be found flourishing in cultivation under various environmental conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests on mountain slopes and stream banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The evergreen fragrant sweet box is a shrub that makes an excellent border or accent plant, especially when planted in rows against fences or by patios. It adds interest and ornamental value to woodland gardens and winter gardens, since this season is when its white flowers bloom. Birds also flock to this plant in the summer to eat its red berries.

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Quickly Identify Fragrant sweet box

Low-growing evergreen reaching 4 feet (1.2 meters) in height and width.

Fragrant white flowers in late winter, dense foliage stays green year-round.

Small milky white berries transition from red to black, persisting into winter.

Dark green ovate leaves with sharp tips, leathery texture, up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long.

Female flowers have 3 stigmas, males contain 4-6 stamens, arranged in axillary racemes.

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Care Guide for Fragrant sweet box

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Fragrant sweet box thrives in moist soil and high humidity, requiring watering every 2-3 weeks while allowing soil to dry slightly. As an evergreen, it benefits from mulching to retain moisture and replicate its natural wooded habitat.

Fertilize: For fragrant sweet box, apply balanced fertilizers in spring and mid-summer at quarter to half strength. Maintain consistent feeding during growth for vigor, avoiding over-fertilization. Adjust with seasons: reduce in fall and withhold in winter. Use moist soil for effective application, ensuring fragrant sweet box thrives.

Propagation: Fragrant sweet box is propagated through healthy semi-hardwood cuttings. Make a clean cut below a leaf node, strip bottom leaves, and use rooting hormone to enhance root growth. Plant in well-draining mix, maintaining humidity and consistent moisture for successful establishment.

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