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Plant Profile
Winter Plant Pick 2010

Sarcococca
      hookeriana
              var. 'humilis'

Himalayan Sweetbox

        Sarcococca, better known as Himalayan Sweetbox is a handsome under-utilized evergreen plant, reaching 1-2' high and wide. Sweetbox can be used individually as a small shrub or massed as a evergreen groundcover. Its glossy dark green leaves complement the sweetly fragrant white flowers that open in early Spring. Dark bluish black fruit are borne sporadically in late summer. It is a fabulous alternative to the ubiquitous big three of evergreen groundcovers, Pachysandra, Vinca, and English Ivy.

        Though not as aggressive as the previously mentioned plants, once established (typically 3-5 yrs.) Sweetbox will form a tidy mass of lustrous foliage that will give year round delight. It prefers to be planted in a shade to part shade exposure with moist well-drained soil. As with most broad-leaved evergreens in our part of the country, a little protection from those winter winds will prevent any winter burn.

        Sweetbox is stoloniferous and spreads gradually into open spaces, while never out competing its neighbors. I have seen it thrive in rather tough enviroments, bordering storefronts and sidewalks along busy roads, which leads me to believe that it is more adaptable then many give it credit for. Free of any major pests or diseases, Sweetbox will sometimes develop winter burn due to harsh winters or improper planting placement.

        It gives great year-round presence when inter-planted with Ferns, Liriope, Heuchera, and other shade-loving perennials. It has been cultivated and sold in the trade for over thirty years and seems to be gaining in popularity as more and more gardeners realize its merits. It can be a little pricey when compared to other similar sized plants, but as I'm sure you'll find it's well worth the extra expense.

- James McLoughlin

Also see: Spring 2009 Brunnera Macrophylla, ‘Jack Frost’ Summer 2009 Geranium Rozanne Fall 2009 - the Itea Virginica ‘Little Henry’ Winter 2009 The Common Winterberry 
Spring 2008 Yoshino Cherry  

NOFA accredited organic
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Rooted in tradition since 1975

Rooted in tradition since 1975