Sweet Box | Sarcococca ruscifolia Dragon Gate - Shrub - Height 15-20cm - 2lt

Sarcococca ruscifolia var. chinensis 'Dragon Gate' is an evergreen shrub valued in British gardens for its glossy foliage, compact habit, and highly fragrant winter flowers. It belongs to the Buxaceae family and originates from woodland regions of China. The cultivar ‘Dragon Gate’ is particularly prized for its dense growth and reliable performance in shaded garden settings.

Typically reaching around 1–1.5 metres in height and a similar spread, Sarcococca ‘Dragon Gate’ forms a neat, bushy shrub with gently arching stems. Its leaves are dark green, leathery, and lance-shaped, usually measuring between 5 and 10 centimetres in length. The foliage remains attractive throughout the year, providing valuable evergreen structure in borders and woodland gardens. New growth may appear slightly lighter in colour before maturing to a rich, glossy green.

One of the most distinctive features of this plant is its flowering season. In mid to late winter, small creamy-white flowers appear in clusters along the stems. Although the flowers themselves are quite modest in appearance, they produce an exceptionally strong, sweet fragrance that can carry across the garden on still days. This scent is often compared to honey or vanilla and is especially noticeable during mild winter weather.

Following flowering, the plant may develop decorative berries that ripen to a deep red. These small fruits add additional ornamental interest and can persist for several weeks.

Sarcococca ‘Dragon Gate’ performs best in moist but well-drained soil and prefers partial to full shade, making it particularly suitable for planting beneath trees or along north-facing walls. It is hardy in most parts of the UK and generally requires little maintenance beyond occasional pruning to maintain shape or remove damaged growth.

Because of its fragrance, shade tolerance, and tidy habit, Sarcococca ‘Dragon Gate’ is often planted near paths, entrances, or seating areas where its winter scent can be appreciated. It is also effective in mixed shrub borders and woodland-style planting schemes, providing both seasonal interest and dependable evergreen presenc