Today I would like to introduce you to …
Sarcococca
which is commonly known as Sweet Box
Winter isn’t known for its flora and fauna. A time when the world sleeps and it is all cold and grey and damp; when the mud collects around your wellies in claggy lumps. But even in the darkest, dreariest of days, there are delights; like the Sarcococca.
This flowering shrub is indeed a treasured find.
It has stunning evergreen leaves that feed the most beautiful ‘giggle’ of flowers (that’s not a technical term, but it’s the only collective name that does these cute, waving petals any justice). I’m totally sure they play a happy game of hide and seek with every passer by.
But it’s not just the way it looks that makes it special.
Imagine with me for a moment. You are all bundled up in your coat and hat, walking along a sticky, muddy path or a grey, damp footpath, just minding your own business. Suddenly, you are enveloped in a cloud of the most exquisite perfume. You look around for a blousy individual, knowing it isn’t the season for blossoms or blooms, but curiously there is no one there.
You see, the Sarcococca has the most delicious fragrance which, unless you are specifically looking for it, takes you by surprise. Bewildered by your senses, you are transported from the depth of winter to a seemingly tropical paradise by an unknown scent. Playing hide and seek with you behind the shiny leaves and black berries are the buds and blooms that on mass seem to exude a factory worth of fragrance.
I think that the moment you make the discovery and find them, both you and the plant smile in delight.
I’d like to say a quick thank you whichever gardeners unselfishly place this plant on the edges of their plots, offering this simple pleasure to ambling pedestrians. It is very appreciated.
You’ll always remember the first time you encounter the Sarcococca, a light in the darkness of the deep season and the herald of hope for those fed up with the damp and drizzle.
My only criticism of this treasured delight, if it would be fair to have one, is the name. No, seriously. I still haven’t mastered how to pronounce it (always one too many co co cos) and it makes me think of the not subtle alarm call from ‘Robots’ “Caw-Caw, Caw-Caw’.
Keep an eye out for the Sarcococca when you’re out on your next walk and do let me know if you find one!
Love and heaps of blessings,
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