Ruscus aculeatus aka Butcher's Broom

Butcher's Broom presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Butcher's Broom should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Butcher's Broom loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Butcher's Broom prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

During the wintertime, it's common for Butcher's Broom to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

The growth of Butcher's Broom is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Butcher's Broom grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Butcher's Broom’s native range is Western and southern Europe from Britain to Switzerland, south to the Mediterranean.