Sarcococca orientalis is a species in the genus Sarcococca in the plant family Buxaceae. It is commonly known as Christmas box or sweet box. It is native to Jiangxi province of south-east China, and forms a small evergreen shrub, preferring positions with some shade. The ovate-lanceolate leaves are cuneate at the base and can reach 9 cm in length. The leaves are longer than the leaves of the commonly cultivated S.confusa and broader than S. hookeriana. The pink-tinged white flowers are inconspicuous but sweetly scented, and appear along the branches in midwinter, their scent most noticeable during mild spells. The small fruits (drupes) are black.
Sarcococca orientalis shows good resistance to disease and is usually not prone to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants generally do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Sarcococca orientalist is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much experience in plant care.
How to keep Sarcococca Orientalis.
Light
Sarcococca orientalis is native to habitats such as forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can adjust to full sun or full shade, showing its versatile and hardy nature.
Temperature
Sarcococca orientalis is highly adaptable to a range of climate conditions, from very hot summers to cold winters. Nevertheless, it has an ideal temperature range for growth. If temperatures become too high, the plant can experience heat and humidity stress that may lead to its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of what it can tolerate in cold, taking measures to insulate and protect the plant is important.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing Sarcococca orientalis is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant periods and active growth.
Pruning
Sarcococca orientalis is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy leaves and fragrant winter flowers. To encourage growth and enhance blooms, it's best to prune the plant in early spring. This helps shape the shrub and remove any dead wood. Regular pruning not only maintains the plant’s compactness by thinning dense areas and shortening leggy branches, but also improves air circulation and light penetration, promoting overall health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Sarcococca
- Family
- Buxaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Mature Height
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 0.91 m to 1.22 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- China
Other names.
