Ruscus hypoglossum

Ruscus hypoglossum, commonly known as the Spineless Butcher's Broom, is a rhizomatous and evergreen bush very similar to the Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus), known for its medicinal properties. Visually, it is mainly distinguished by a larger development and larger false leaves, making it a particularly decorative plant in all seasons. It is also recognizable by the curious arrangement of its small flowers that grow in the "leaves" and the fact that it rarely produces fruits. Its silhouette, like a dwarf bamboo, and its very green colour bring lushness to shaded areas of the garden, even dry ones, which are often difficult to plant. It can be grown in pots, even indoors, and is well suited for topiary art.

Ruscus hypoglossum belongs to the family of Asparagaceae, or lilies. It is native to the eastern part of the Mediterranean basin, from Italy to Turkey. This bush grows slowly and reaches an average adult size of 70cm (28in) in height, depending on the growing conditions. However, the plant spreads through relatively shallow rhizomes. In the long run, it can form more or less significant colonies.
The Butcher's Broom has a bushy, spreading habit. What appears as tough and shiny leaves are actually cladodes, flattened stems that perform the same chlorophyll function as leaves. They remain green throughout the winter, even in severe frost. The true leaves resemble tiny thorns, they are formidable and located at the tip of the cladodes. Flowering occurs from March to May. The small greenish to yellowish flowers appear among these cladodes, alone or grouped in clusters of 2 to 4. The Butcher's Broom is a dioecious plant, with male and female plants. Therefore, fruiting is only possible if both sexes are planted in the garden. The fruit is a small round and bright red berry that persists throughout the winter.

The entire plant is toxic if ingested.

The Butcher's Broom thrives in shade or partial shade in well-drained soil, it thrives in the undergrowth, away from burning rays of the sun. Once well-established, it requires no special maintenance. It is a bush that has its place in all gardens to enliven a dark corner, under a sparse mass of trees or shrubs to dress their base. Its slightly wild appearance will blend well with lilies and bleeding hearts, its shiny green foliage will enhance the delicate hues of fuchsias and columbines. In winter, it can be used to create floral arrangements in the house, for example with amaryllis. Prune in spring and autumn to maintain a more compact habit, especially if using the plant for topiary.