The Purple stemmed Sweet Box
An interesting form, Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna has deep red stems and is commonly called the purple stem Himalayan Box. So in terms of the genus it adds an extra colour when compared to the other species. The new growth on the stems add extra colour and it is just as easy too grow as the other varieties.
Flowers are pink and white colour, held close to the stems. Foliage is lance shaped and the plant has a strong upright growth habit. Flowers are followed by small black berries.
Landscaping Uses
Being evergreen and thriving in dry shade Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna is a very versatile landscaping plant. It is the new stems that have the brightest colour and this is a plant that will grow well in a container. as well as in the ground..
Care and growing conditions
A humus rich soil in filtered to part shade. In warmer area protection from afternoon sun is advisable. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shade. The root system is not regarded as invasive and these are a long lived shrub. Fertilise with a slow release fertiliser in spring, water Sacococca hookeriana var. digyna in with a seaweed fertiliser when planting.
Summary
- Evergreen.
- To around 1 to 1.4 metres in height.
- Spread – Will spread to around 2 metres, further over time by suckering.
- Grows well in dry shade.
- Fragrant flowers in winter.
- Frost tolerant.
- Excellent beneath trees.
