Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna

Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna is a small bush ideal for bringing life to the garden in winter, even in shady areas. It will please with its elegant evergreen foliage and pleasantly fragrant white-pink flowers. In addition to its ornamental qualities, this plant is also hardy, tolerant of different soils, and drought-tolerant. It will adapt well in many gardens.

Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna is a slightly suckering rhizomatous bush. Belonging to the buxaceae family, it is a close relative of the Boxwood, originating from western China and the Himalayas. It is commonly found in the evergreen forests of these regions. This sarcococca forms a dense and bushy small bush that will not exceed 1.20 m (4ft) in height and 1 m (3ft) in width after many years, as its growth is quite slow. Its foliage is tough and evergreen in winter. The leaves are entire, oblong-lanceolate, and elongated, measuring 3 to 6 cm (1 to 2in) in length. The flowers, surrounded by pink bracts, appear as early as December, sometimes alongside the black fruits, creating a beautiful contrast. They are gathered in small clusters in the axil of the leaves, along the branches. They measure no more than 3 to 5 mm (1in) in length and are petal-less, showing only well-developed yellow-green stamens and 2 styles marked with pink-red at their base. This beautifully scented flowering lasts for about 2 months, depending on the climate. The round berries are 3 to 5 mm (1in) in diameter, turn bluish-black when ripe and are not edible, but very decorative.

This sarcococca offers a deliciously scented flowering at a time of year when this is quite rare. It grows slowly and, just like dwarf conifers, blends into the background during the summer, but effectively structures small spaces in winter and is undemanding. It brings a permanent presence and a touch of spring to shaded areas of the garden throughout the winter, similar to mahonias and hellebores that can accompany it. It can be cultivated both in flowerbeds and in understory, low hedges, or ground covers. It is perfectly capable of competing with tree roots. It is perfect in the company of Pieris, aucubas, or Japanese azaleas. You can even grow it in pots near your front door to fully enjoy its delicious fragrance.