Also known as Sweet Box · 99 saves
Sarcococca
Sarcococca, the genus most gardeners know as sweet box. We track 8 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 8 most-saved Sarcococca varieties
Species of Sarcococca
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Sarcococca in Sow
Save the Sarcococca you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Sarcococca
Whats common across all Sarcococca varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 8 most-grown of them.
The Sarcococca year
- PruneMarch and April100% of varieties
Lightly shape after flowering to control spread or remove any winter damage.
- MulchApril and November75% of varieties
Apply a 2-inch layer of compost or leaf mold to retain moisture and enrich soil.
- FertilizeMarch50% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost in early spring.
Do
- Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
- Plant in acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter.
- Mulch annually with compost or shredded leaves.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape if desired.
- Plant it in shade beside a path or door 🚪
Avoid
- Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not plant in full sun, which will scorch the leaves.
- Do not plant in full sun, which can scorch the leaves.
What goes wrong with Sarcococca
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale Insects | Small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves, sometimes with sticky honeydew. | Scrub off with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season. |
| Scale insects | Sticky honeydew and sooty mold | Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; no routine treatment needed |
| Root rot | Leaves dull and yellow and the plant thins from the base in wet, poorly drained ground | Improve drainage before planting; sweet box tolerates deep shade but not waterlogged soil |
| Root Rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves, and plant decline due to overly wet soil. | Improve drainage or move the plant to a better location. There is no cure; prevention is essential. |
| Rust | Orange or brown pustules on the undersides of leaves. | Improve air circulation. Remove and destroy infected leaves. Apply a copper-based fungicide if severe. |
Making more Sarcococca
Division
- Dig up an established clump in early spring.
- Use a sharp spade to separate the clump into smaller sections.
- Ensure each division has ample roots and several stems.
- Replant divisions immediately and water well.
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer (6 weeks).
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone powder.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil mixture.
- Keep soil consistently moist and place in indirect light.
- Roots develop in approximately 6-8 weeks.
Sarcococca questions
How many types of Sarcococca are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 8 distinct Sarcococca varieties. The most popular — ranked by 99 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Sarcococca grow in?
Across its varieties, Sarcococca covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Sarcococca bloom?
Most Sarcococca varieties bloom in late fall, late winter. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Sarcococca should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.