Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' - 15cm Pot - Fragrant Evergreen Shrub

Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' in a 15cm Pot - your garden's ticket to year-round enchantment!

Known affectionately as the 'Christmas Box' or 'Sweet Box,' this delightful plant is sure to bring a smile to your face with its sheer charm. The 'Winter Gem' is a true gem indeed, boasting glossy evergreen leaves that play host to the most enchanting little flowers, resembling miniature fireworks. And the best part? These blooms emit a heavenly vanilla fragrance that will transport your senses to paradise, especially on sunny days.

As winter descends, watch in awe as delicate white flowers emerge from their pinky-red buds, adding a touch of magic to your garden. But the show doesn't end there! 'Winter Gem' continues to impress with its glossy, round red berries that gradually ripen to a rich, inky black, ensuring your garden remains a visual treat even through the colder months.

The versatility of the 'Winter Gem' knows no bounds. Whether you prefer pots or borders, sun or shade, this hardy beauty is up for the challenge. Plant it where you can relish that incredible winter scent daily – it's a true mood-lifter!

'Winter Gem' is a tough customer, unfazed by most conditions, making it an invaluable addition, especially for those shadier corners of your garden. With its strong disposition, it's here to stay and flourish, adding character and elegance to your outdoor space.

Supplied as an established plant in a 15cm pot, it's ready for immediate planting out. No waiting around, just instant gratification as you bring home a piece of botanical bliss.

In summary, Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' is your go-to choice for a year-round garden sensation. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your outdoor haven with this delightful and enduring marvel. Add 'Winter Gem' to your collection today and let the magic begin!

Product Specifications for Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' in a 15cm Pot:

• Common Name: Christmas Box, Sweet Box
• Botanical Name: Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem'
• Pot Size: 15cm
• Foliage Type: Glossy evergreen leaves
• Flower Type: Small white flowers with pinky-red buds
• Fragrance: Sweet vanilla fragrance, particularly on sunny days
• Fruit: Glossy round red berries ripening to black
• Sun Exposure: Suitable for both sunny and shaded areas
• Growth Habit: Compact and bushy
• Mature Height: 0.6-1 metre (2-3 feet)
• Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil
• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 6-9
• Maintenance: Low maintenance, prune to shape if necessary
• Suitable for: Pots, borders, and garden beds
• Ideal Use: Winter garden interest, fragrance, and evergreen foliage
• Special Features: Tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including shade
• Planting: Ready for immediate planting out
• Origin: Native to Asia
• Supplier: Established plant supplied in a 15cm pot

Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' is a versatile and hardy evergreen shrub that thrives in various conditions, making it an excellent choice for adding year-round interest to your garden. With its delightful fragrance, glossy foliage, and charming berries, it's a must-have for garden enthusiasts looking to enhance their outdoor spaces.

Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' Care Guide - Nurturing Your Fragrant Evergreen Shrub

Congratulations on adding the delightful Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' to your garden! To ensure its health and beauty, follow these care guidelines.

Planting:

• Location: Choose a well-drained spot with either partial to full shade. 'Winter Gem' thrives in shadier areas, making it perfect for those tricky corners.
• Soil: Opt for humus-rich soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
• Spacing: When planting multiple 'Winter Gem' shrubs, space them about 60-90cm (2-3 feet) apart to allow for proper growth.

Watering:

• Establishment: During the first year, water regularly to establish a healthy root system. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Mature Plants: Once established, 'Winter Gem' is remarkably drought-tolerant. Water during prolonged dry spells, ensuring the soil doesn't completely dry out.

Feeding:

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosing.

Pruning:

• Shape Maintenance: Prune lightly after flowering in late winter or early spring to maintain a neat and compact shape. Remove dead or damaged branches at this time.
• Spent Flowers: Deadhead faded flowers to encourage continued bloom.

Mulching:

• Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as well-rotted compost or bark chips, around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a consistent soil temperature.

Winter Care:

• Protection: While 'Winter Gem' is hardy, providing a layer of mulch around the base can protect the roots from harsh frost.
• Pots: If planted in containers, move the pots to a sheltered location or wrap them with horticultural fleece during extreme cold spells.

Pest and Disease Management:

• 'Winter Gem' is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, inspect your plant regularly for signs of common garden pests and treat promptly if necessary.

Enjoying the Fragrance:

• Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' is renowned for its sweet vanilla fragrance. Plant it near paths, entrances, or seating areas, so you can fully appreciate its delightful scent on sunny winter days.

By following these care instructions, you'll ensure that your Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' thrives and continues to grace your garden with its evergreen beauty and enchanting fragrance for years to come. Happy gardening!

Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem' - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the ideal location for planting 'Winter Gem'?

• 'Winter Gem' thrives in partial to full shade, making it suitable for shadier areas of your garden. Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in humus for best results.

2. How often should I water my 'Winter Gem'?

• During the establishment phase (the first year), water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once mature, 'Winter Gem' is drought-tolerant, requiring watering primarily during extended dry spells.

3. When is the best time to fertilize this shrub?

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowering. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer.

4. How should I prune 'Winter Gem' to maintain its shape?

• Prune lightly after flowering in late winter or early spring to encourage a tidy and compact form. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged branches during this time.

5. Is deadheading necessary for 'Winter Gem'?

• Deadheading (removing faded flowers) is recommended to encourage continuous blooming and maintain the shrub's appearance.

6. Can I grow 'Winter Gem' in a container or pot?

• Yes, 'Winter Gem' adapts well to container planting. Ensure the pot has good drainage and use a quality potting mix. Move pots to sheltered locations or wrap them during severe winter conditions.

7. How can I protect my 'Winter Gem' during the winter months?

• Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps protect the roots from frost. This is especially important in colder climates.

8. Does 'Winter Gem' attract pests or diseases?

• 'Winter Gem' is relatively resistant to common garden pests and diseases. However, it's advisable to inspect your plant regularly for any signs of issues and take appropriate action if necessary.

9. What makes 'Winter Gem' special?

• 'Winter Gem' is prized for its glossy evergreen leaves, sweet vanilla fragrance, and charming red-to-black berries. Its adaptability to shade and ease of care make it a standout addition to any garden.

10. Can I enjoy the fragrance of 'Winter Gem' all year round?

• The delightful vanilla fragrance of 'Winter Gem' is most prominent on sunny winter days when it's in bloom, making it a fantastic addition for providing winter garden interest and fragrance.

These FAQs should provide you with valuable insights into caring for your Sarcococca Hookeriana 'Winter Gem.' If you have any additional questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us for further assistance. Happy gardening!