Fragrant Sarcococca Sweet Box

Fragrant sarcococca, also called sweet box, is a compact evergreen shrub in the boxwood family native to China. Growing 4-6 feet tall and wide, it is notable for intensely fragrant white flowers that appear in winter to early spring. The glossy, dark green leaves are leathery and ornamental year-round.

Sarcococca confusa prefers partial shade to full shade and well-drained, humus-rich soil. It is hardy to USDA zones 6b-9a and is slow-growing, making it suitable for foundation plantings and shaded borders. The flowers are followed by small black berries. Low maintenance and shade-tolerant, it is valued for winter interest and fragrance.