Sarcococca Care

Water plants well in the first year or so, while they are establishing. Thereafter, plants in the ground are only likely to need watering during prolonged periods of very dry weather, unless the soil is very light and very well drained.

In late winter or early spring lightly trim or prune back shoots that spoil the plant's symmetry. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost around the base of the plant.

Mix a liquid fertilizer with water according to the labeled directions.

Sarcococca confusa is an adaptable plant, growing easily in most lighting conditions.

Sarcococca are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of chalk, clay, sand or loam within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. These shrubs are best positioned in full shade or part shade, although full sun will be tolerated if placed in exceedingly damp soil.

Full sun may bleach the leaves a little, but it's possible in cool climates with damp soil. These plants are winter hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9. In zone 6, where temperatures may reach -10° degrees Fahrenheit (-23° C), the plant may survive outdoors with protection from the cold.

They can tolerate pollution, can be grown in pots

Sarcococca confusa has no toxic effects reported. They are slow-growing, monoecious, evergreen shrubs 1–2 m (3–7 ft) tall. The leaves are borne alternately, 3–12 cm long and 1–4 cm broad. The plants bear fragrant white flowers, often in winter.