Sarcococca ruscifolia aka Fragrant Sweet Box

Sarcococca ruscifolia, or fragrant sweet box, belongs to the box family. This evergreen shrub comes from central and southern China. It keeps its leaves through winter and grows slowly. Its dense, rounded shape can become uneven with age. Garden plants reach about 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 metres) tall and wide. RHS gives a smaller range of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre). Plants can spread through suckers and form low patches. They may take five to ten years to reach maturity.

The dark green leaves have a glossy, somewhat leathery surface. Each leaf is simple, oval, and ends in a sharp point. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. They reach about 2.5 inches long and have no hairs. The stems lack scent, but the flowers have a strong fragrance. Small, cream-white flowers open from late winter into early spring. Missouri Botanical Garden lists March to April as the bloom period.

The flowers lack petals and grow in clusters at leaf joints. Male and female flowers occur separately within these clusters. Female flowers sit below the male flowers and have three stigmas. Male flowers carry four to six stamens. Round red fruits follow the flowers and can last into winter. NC State reports that they turn black as they ripen. Each fruit measures about a quarter-inch across. The fruit adds winter interest, and the shrub attracts songbirds. RHS warns that people and pets must not eat the fruit.

Grow this shrub in partial shade or full shade. It prefers moist, humus-rich soil that drains well. NC State favors acid soil; RHS also allows neutral or alkaline soil. RHS lists clay, loam, sand, and chalk as suitable soils. Full sun can dull or scorch the leaves. Damp soil may help plants cope with more sun. The shrub tolerates dry shade, drought, air pollution, and some neglect. It suits USDA zones 7–9 and carries the RHS H5 rating.

Use fragrant sweet box for low hedges, ground cover, or foundation beds. It also fits woodland gardens, shaded borders, banks, and slopes. Planting near paths or doors brings the flower scent within reach. Deer tend to leave it alone, and upkeep is low. Prune after flowering in spring to control shape and height. Scale insects can occur, though serious pest problems are uncommon. RHS also notes a risk of honey fungus.