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Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem

Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem

Description

Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem, commonly known as the Himalayan sweet box, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas, China, and Japan. The plant has a compact growth habit and can reach a height of 6 feet and a spread of 4 feet. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elongated, with a leathery texture. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and bloom in winter. The plant produces black berries in summer.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Spermatophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Buxales
Family Buxaceae
Genus Sarcococca

Appearance

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem has a dense, bushy growth habit and a rounded shape. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. The stems are purple, which adds to the plant’s ornamental value. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and bloom in winter. The plant produces black berries in summer, which are an excellent source of food for birds.

Care Guide

Water

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem prefers moist soil, but it does not tolerate waterlogging. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization

Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth appears. Avoid over-fertilization as it can damage the plant.

Soil

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.

Sunlight

The plant prefers partial to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight.

Hardiness Zones

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and avoid over-fertilization.

Habitat

The Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem is native to the Himalayas, China, and Japan. It grows in woodland areas, forests, and along stream banks. The plant prefers cool, moist conditions and partial to full shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem deer-resistant?

A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.

Q: Can I grow the Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem in a container?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container. Ensure that the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth and use a well-draining potting mix.

Q: Does the Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem attract pollinators?

A: Yes, the plant’s fragrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Q: Can I propagate the Sarcococca Hookeriana Var. Digyna Purple Stem from cuttings?

A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

Related Plants

  • Sarcococca Confusa
  • Sarcococca Ruscifolia
  • Sarcococca Saligna

References

  • “Sarcococca Hookeriana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e445.
  • “Sarcococca Hookeriana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19140/Sarcococca-hookeriana/Details.
  • “Sarcococca Hookeriana.” Plantzafrica.com, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/sarcococchook.htm.

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