Sweet Box 'Winter Gem'

Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' is an essential evergreen shrub for the winter garden, specifically bred for its glossy foliage and incredible fragrance. This compact cultivar forms a dense, low mound of dark, lance-shaped leaves that look pristine year-round. From mid-to-late winter (usually January to March), it produces clusters of tiny, spindly white flowers with prominent red-tipped stamens. While the flowers are visually modest, their scent is astonishingly powerful—a sweet, vanilla-like perfume that can drift many metres away. These are often followed by glossy black berries. 'Winter Gem' is exceptionally tolerant of deep shade and dry conditions once established, making it the perfect solution for those difficult areas under trees or on the north side of a house. It is fully hardy (H5) and requires very little maintenance. Plant it near a path or garden gate to fully enjoy its wonderful winter aroma. It is also slow-growing, making it ideal for large pots.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jan, Feb, Mar.