Willow-Leaf Sweet-Box

(Sarcococca coriacea)

Willow-Leaf Sweet-Box (Sarcococca coriacea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sarcococca coriacea, commonly known as Willow-Leaf Sweet-Box, is an evergreen shrub native to the understory of montane forests and woodland margins in the Himalayas and parts of Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and a width of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters), with a dense, bushy habit. The plant features narrow, lanceolate leaves that resemble those of willows, and it produces small, fragrant, white flowers in late winter to early spring, followed by glossy black berries.

Willow-Leaf Sweet-Box is valued for its sweetly scented flowers, which can bring a pleasant aroma to a garden during the otherwise dormant season. It is often used in shaded borders, woodland gardens, and as a foundation planting. This shrub thrives in part to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is relatively low-maintenance, but may require watering during prolonged dry spells. While generally disease-resistant, it can occasionally suffer from leaf spot or blight. It is not known for being invasive and is considered a safe choice for most gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-5 feet
  • Width: 3-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Understory of montane forests and woodland margins

Other Names

Common Names: Sweet Box

Scientific Names: , Sarcococca coriacea, Sarcococca pruniformis, Sarcococca trinervia, Sarcococca vagans, Sarcococca zeylanica var. brevifolia, Sarcococca brevifolia, Sarcococca tonkinensis, Buxus cariacea, Buxus coriacea

GBIF Accepted Name: Sarcococca coriacea (Hook.) Sweet