Click for previous Image Image 1 of 2 Sarcococca orientalis Sweetbox

Sarcococca orientalis

Sweetbox

Plant Type:

BROADLEAF EVERGREEN SHRUBS

Sarcococca orientalis - This larger growing Sweetbox is evergreen with lustrous waxy lance-shaped leaves, thick-textured and up to 3" long, in alternate pattern on olive-green stems. Down south it flowers in winter with white axillary blossoms - bigger than found on its more demure cousin, S. humilis. Fruits are glossy black. Sweetbox is a moderate increaser and will want to colonize. It will make a very nice large-scale ground cover in open, dappled to part shade away from strong midday and afternoon sun. Shelter from desiccating winds in the northern part of its range. Plant in fertile soil. Sarcococca orientalis exhibits good drought tolerance once established. This could make a very nice potted plant in the cool conservatory up north. Cutting grown.


Height:

24-48 In

Colors:

White

Zone:

6b to 8(9)
What is my hardiness zone?

Characteristics and Attributes for Sarcococca orientalis

Season of Interest (Flowering)

  • Winter

Season of Interest (Foliage)

  • Four Seasons

Autumn Interest

  • Fruit / Berries / Seed Heads

Light

  • Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade
  • Shade
  • Dappled Shade

Attributes

  • Ground Cover
  • Foundation
  • Woodland
  • Massing

Growth Rate in the Garden

  • Moderately Fast

Soil

  • Fertile

Origins

  • China

Propagated By

  • Cutting Grown