Contents
Description
Sarcococca Ruscifolia, also known as the Sweet Box or Christmas Box, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas and can be found in countries like China, India, and Nepal. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Buxales
Family: Buxaceae
Genus: Sarcococca
Appearance
Sarcococca Ruscifolia can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are alternate and lanceolate in shape. The flowers are small, white, and highly fragrant, and bloom from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a small, black drupe that ripens in late summer.
Care Guide
Water: Sarcococca Ruscifolia prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth appears.
Soil: Sarcococca Ruscifolia prefers acidic, humus-rich soil. It can also tolerate alkaline soil.
Sunlight: Sarcococca Ruscifolia prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate full sun but may require more watering in hot climates.
Hardiness Zones: Sarcococca Ruscifolia is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcococca Ruscifolia is generally pest-free. However, it may sometimes be affected by spider mites or scale insects. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Sarcococca Ruscifolia is native to the Himalayas and can be found in countries like China, India, and Nepal. It grows in forests, rocky slopes, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sarcococca Ruscifolia toxic?
A: Sarcococca Ruscifolia is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: How often should I prune my Sarcococca Ruscifolia?
A: Prune your Sarcococca Ruscifolia in late spring after flowering to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can Sarcococca Ruscifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sarcococca Ruscifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its growth.
Q: How long does it take for Sarcococca Ruscifolia to bloom?
A: Sarcococca Ruscifolia usually blooms from late winter to early spring, depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Related Plants
- Sarcococca confusa
- Sarcococca hookeriana
- Sarcococca saligna
- Sarcococca vagans
References
- “Sarcococca Ruscifolia (Sweet Box)”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 12 August 2021.
- “Sarcococca Ruscifolia”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 12 August 2021.
- “Sarcococca Ruscifolia”. Plant Finder. Retrieved 12 August 2021.
