Xylosma racemosum, commonly known as Xylosma, Brushholly, or Shiny Xylosma, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to East Asia, including regions of China, Japan, and Taiwan. It is typically found in a variety of habitats such as forest margins, thickets, and valleys, often in areas with moist, well-drained soils. Xylosma racemosum grows at a moderate rate to a typical height and width of 6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters), featuring a dense, rounded form with arching branches. The leaves are glossy green, and the plant produces small, yellow, inconspicuous flowers in the summer, followed by small black berries that are attractive to birds.

Xylosma is valued for its dense foliage and compact growth habit, making it a popular choice for hedges, screens, and topiary in gardens. It is also used for urban planting due to its tolerance of pollution and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water with good drainage to prevent root rot. While generally low-maintenance, it may occasionally suffer from pests such as scale insects or fungal diseases. Pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and promote denser growth.CC BY-SA 4.0