Sarcococca humilis 'Fragrant Mountain' is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its sweetly fragrant winter flowers, glossy green foliage, and low maintenance nature. Blooming in late winter it produces small creamy white blossoms followed by glossy black berries that persist into spring. Ideal for foundation plantings, entryways, or shaded containers, this variety adds year round structure and scent to shaded garden spaces.
Height & Spread: 12 - 24 in x 18 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, humus rich soil with good drainage
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Foliage and flowers are generally unappealing to deer
Native Status
Native to western China, Sarcococca humilis 'Fragrant Mountain' is not North American native but is well adapted to shade gardens in temperate regions.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Early blooming flowers supply nectar and pollen for overwintered honeybees and small native bees such as Lasioglossum and Andrena species.
Birds
- Produces shiny black berries in spring that are eaten by thrushes, mockingbirds, and waxwings.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides shelter in its dense foliage for predatory beetles and parasitic wasps during the colder months.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 24 - 36 in apart to allow for mature spread and low ground coverage.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for shaded borders, beneath deciduous trees, and along walkways where its fragrance and evergreen texture can be appreciated up close.
Companion Plants
- Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' - Delicate yellow flowers and heart shaped foliage blend well in shaded woodland settings with Sarcococca.
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) - Copper tinged fronds harmonize with Sarcococca’s evergreen texture and appreciate similar moisture and shade.
- Helleborus orientalis 'Red Lady' - Deep burgundy blooms contrast with Sarcococca’s glossy leaves and share winter bloom time.
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Broad leaves form a dense mat beneath Sarcococca and offer contrast in texture and height.
- Heuchera 'Green Spice' - Silvery green leaves with purple veining echo the Sarcococca's dark foliage while brightening the groundplane.