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Description
Sarcococca Wallichii, also known as Himalayan sweet box or fragrant Himalayan sweet box, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Buxaceae. This evergreen shrub is native to the Himalayas and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It has an upright growth habit and produces clusters of small, white flowers in late winter to early spring. The flowers are highly fragrant, emitting a sweet scent that attracts pollinators. After flowering, the plant produces small, black berries that are toxic to humans but attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom | Phylum| Class | Order| Family| Genus||———-|———|———|——-|————|———-|————–|| Eukarya| Plantae | Angiosperms | Magnoliopsida | Buxales| Buxaceae | Sarcococca|
Appearance
Sarcococca Wallichii has glossy, dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 5 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a leathery texture. The bark is brown and smooth. The flowers are small, white, and highly fragrant. They are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant produces small, black berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Sarcococca Wallichii prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in full sun to partial shade but prefers a shady location. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and size.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sarcococca Wallichii is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, or leaf spot. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Sarcococca Wallichii is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in forests and on rocky slopes. It prefers a cool, moist climate and is often found growing in shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sarcococca Wallichii a good plant for shade?
A: Yes, Sarcococca Wallichii prefers a shady location and can tolerate full shade.
Q: Can Sarcococca Wallichii tolerate dry conditions?
A: No, Sarcococca Wallichii prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: Is Sarcococca Wallichii deer resistant?
A: Yes, Sarcococca Wallichii is deer resistant.
Q: When is the best time to prune Sarcococca Wallichii?
A: Prune Sarcococca Wallichii after flowering in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
– Sarcococca confusa- Sarcococca hookeriana- Sarcococca ruscifolia- Sarcococca saligna
References
– “Sarcococca Wallichii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280587.- “Sarcococca Wallichii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/44228/Sarcococca-wallichii/Details.
