Sarcococca
Contents
Description
Sarcococca is a genus of evergreen shrubs that are popular for their sweet fragrance and attractive appearance. Also known as sweet box, these shrubs are native to Asia and are prized for their winter blooms, which are tiny and creamy-white in color. The flowers give way to glossy black berries that attract birds and other wildlife. Sarcococca is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 6 feet and a spread of up to 4 feet. It is ideal for planting in shady areas and can be grown as a specimen plant, hedge, or border plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Sarcococca |
Appearance
Sarcococca shrubs have a dense, bushy growth habit and are typically 3-6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are glossy and dark green, and the flowers are small and creamy-white, blooming in late winter or early spring. The flowers are followed by glossy black berries that ripen in late summer or early fall. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown.
Care Guide
Sarcococca is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Sarcococca:- Water: Sarcococca prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.- Soil: Sarcococca prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.- Sunlight: Sarcococca prefers partial to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Sarcococca is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcococca is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by scale insects, spider mites, or powdery mildew. If you notice any of these issues, treat your shrub with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Sarcococca is native to Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, thickets, and rocky slopes. It prefers shady areas with moist, well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Sarcococca?
A: Water your Sarcococca deeply once a week during dry spells.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sarcococca?
A: Sarcococca is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with Sarcococca?
A: Sarcococca is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally be affected by scale insects, spider mites, or powdery mildew.
Q: What is the best location for planting Sarcococca?
A: Sarcococca prefers shady areas with moist, well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Buxus (boxwood)- Ilex (holly)- Mahonia (Oregon grape)- Pieris (lily of the valley shrub)- Viburnum (viburnum)
References
– “Sarcococca.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a758.- “Sweet Box.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10219/sarcococca-confusa/details.
