Sarcococca hookeriana Winter Gem

This new hybrid form (S. hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’ x S. hookeriana var. humilis), has inherited the best qualities of both its parents. It has larger than average leaves, which are a glossy rich green and highly scented white flowers in winter that are followed by spherical, glossy, red berries that ripen to black. Tough and tolerant of most conditions, it is especially valuable for shadier areas.

During the winter this amazing glossy evergreen Sarcococca  Winter Gem is smothered by highly fragrant honey-scented white flowers; each one emerging from a deep red bud. It is perfect for borders and containers, or as a low fragrant hedge. It is an absolute must-have for your garden bearing its glossy green leaves and beautifully fragrant flowers in the depth of winter when the rest of your garden is dormant.

This slow growing plant spreads by suckering shoots gradually forming a low-growing mound of evergreen foliage. The dark green leaves are slightly rippled and the white flowers are eventually replaced by glossy black spherical fruits. It is a very adaptable and reliable shrub that is easily grown in most situations including dense shade with very dry soil. It will also grow in full sun.

From Greenfingers inspiration for your garden

At the botton of the page a new youtube video by  Peter van Rijssen  from royalty Management agency Plantipp BV/Concept Plants USA

 If you have this in your garden or in a pot and it is looking a bit yellow FEED NOW  with high nitrogen fertilizer May 23rd

• Hardy evergreen shrub (Christmas Box)
• Succeeding in any fertile soil
• Especially happy in chalk
• Dense suckering habit, excellent ground cover
• Shade-tolerant but will also grow in full sun
• Very dark glossy foliage suitable for cutting
• A profuse of fragrant small creamy-white flowers
• In late winter has distinctive red to pink anthers
• Followed by shinning black berries in the autumn
• Excellent plant in a coloured pot on a patio feed in the spring

Can be seen in the Winter Gardens at the Hillier Gardens, Romsey, Hampshire.