shrub

Butcher's Broom

Ruscus aculeatus 'Christmas Berry'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher's Broom, is an evergreen perennial shrub with stiff, lance-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries, often used as decorative foliage. The 'Christmas Berry' cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant red berries that persist through the winter, making it a popular choice for festive arrangements and holiday decorations.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round visual interest with its glossy evergreen foliage and bright red berries in fall and winter.

Drought tolerant once established, suitable for low-water gardens.

Attracts birds with its berries, supporting local wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly until roots develop, about 6 weeks.
Place in partial shade for best growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Prune lightly after flowering to shape.
Fertilize twice a year with balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune to maintain shape after bloom
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Expose to full sun in hot climates
Neglect pruning or fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with glossy foliageDecorative border with berries

Companion Plants

Holly Ivy Boxwood Camellia Rhododendron

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Butcher's Broom questions

What zones can Butcher's Broom grow in?

Butcher's Broom is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Butcher's Broom deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Butcher's Broom, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Butcher's Broom bloom?

Butcher's Broom typically blooms in late winter to early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Butcher's Broom need full sun?

Butcher's Broom does best in part shade.

Is Butcher's Broom drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Butcher's Broom handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.