Sarcococca ruscifolia (Fragrant Sweet Box)

Sarcococca ruscifolia (Fragrant Sweet Box), 'Fragrant Sweet Box', is valued for its garden character and seasonal interest in PNW landscapes.

Sweet Box (Sarcococca) , refined low evergreen shrub with glossy dark leaves and intensely fragrant tiny white winter flowers, followed by black berries. Excellent for shaded foundation plantings and entryways where the winter fragrance can be appreciated.

Part shade to deep shade suits this species. Plant in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Hardy USDA Zone 6 to 9. Spreads slowly by rhizome to form colonies. Tolerates dry shade once established. Generally trouble-free.

For a Pacific Northwest native shrub of similar character, consider Mahonia aquifolium (Tall Oregon Grape, Oregon state flower), Philadelphus lewisii (Mock Orange), or Holodiscus discolor (Oceanspray) , all support native pollinators and birds.