Sarcococca Plants (Sweet Box)

Bring a sheltered, shady corner to life with Sarcococca. These evergreen shrubs provide year-round greenery, while most varieties produce small flowers with a wonderfully sweet winter fragrance.

Explore favourites including Sarcococca confusa, ‘Winter Gem’ and ‘Purple Gem’. Plant scented varieties beside a path or entrance to enjoy their perfume as you pass, or choose Sarcococca saligna for its elegant, willow-like foliage.
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Which Sarcococca should I choose?

For a larger evergreen shrub: Choose Sarcococca confusa, with glossy foliage, fragrant white winter flowers and a bushy habit.

For smaller spaces: Explore ‘Winter Gem’ and ‘Purple Gem’. These compact choices bring evergreen foliage and winter fragrance to sheltered borders and containers.

For colourful stems: ‘Purple Stem’ combines purple young stems with narrow green leaves and scented, pink-tinged white flowers.

For graceful foliage: Sarcococca saligna has slender leaves and arching stems. Choose this variety for its appearance rather than fragrance, as its flowers are unscented.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sarcococca grow in shade? +

Yes. Partial or full shade suits Sarcococca well. Choose a sheltered position with protection from drying winds.

Can I grow Sarcococca in a pot? +

Yes. Use a container with drainage holes and keep the compost evenly moist. Container plants need regular watering, including during dry winter weather.

Is Sarcococca suitable for dry shade? +

Established plants can tolerate dry shade, but newly planted shrubs need watering during dry spells while their roots settle in.

When should I prune Sarcococca? +

Little pruning is usually needed. If necessary, lightly reshape after flowering in spring.

Are all Sarcococca flowers scented? +

Most are fragrant, including confusa, ‘Winter Gem’, ‘Purple Gem’ and ‘Purple Stem’. Sarcococca saligna is an exception, with unscented flowers.