Description
Sarcocca hookeriana is native to parts of China and the Himalayas, and is widely cultivated in other parts of the world for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and winter interest. The ‘Winter Gem’ cultivar is a compact, low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of only 60-90 cm (2-3 feet). It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, white, highly fragrant flowers in the late winter or early spring, which are followed by black, berry-like fruit in the summer. Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is valued for its ability to provide year-round interest in the garden, even during the winter months when many other plants are dormant. The plant is also prized for its fragrance, which is reminiscent of jasmine or gardenia. ‘Winter Gem’ is relatively easy to grow, and prefers partial to full shade and well-drained soil. It is also fairly tolerant of a range of growing conditions, including drought and pollution. The plant can be used as a ground cover, edging plant, or in mixed borders, and is particularly well-suited to small gardens or container planting. Overall, Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is a versatile and attractive plant that can add color, texture, and fragrance to a variety of garden settings. Its compact size and low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Sweet box ‘Winter Gem’
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ can grow to a height of 0.7m and a spread of 0.7m.
- Did You Know That:Sarcocca hookeriana is native to the Himalayas, specifically in India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
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Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ prefers a sheltered position and is perfect for darker areas of your garden it likes either full or partial shade.
Maintenance
Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is fairly low maintenance and doesn’t require any pruning.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is generally pest free, and it tends not to have problems with diseases. It is not considered to be toxic.
