How big do sweetbox plants get?

Sweetbox plants, also known as Sarcococca, are a lovely addition to any garden or landscape. These evergreen plants have a unique spreading growth habit, thanks to their underground roots. While the mature size can vary slightly depending on the specific variety and growing conditions, the typical growth of sweetbox plants is around 10-12 inches tall and 2-3 feet wide.

I have personally observed sweetbox plants in various gardens and landscapes, and their growth habit is quite fascinating. They slowly but steadily form a beautiful evergreen mat, which adds a touch of greenery and texture to the surrounding area. The underground roots play a significant role in the plant’s ability to spread and establish itself, making it a reliable groundcover option.

It is worth noting that sweetbox plants can occasionally surpass the typical growth size, reaching heights of 2-3 feet. This can be influenced by factors such as soil fertility, sunlight exposure, and overall care provided to the plant. However, it is essential to consider the specific variety you choose, as some newer releases are more uniform in their habits and may not exceed the typical size range.

If you wish to propagate sweetbox plants, using cuttings is a common method. The plants grown from cuttings can also exhibit some variability in mature size, but generally, they will resemble the parent plant. This is an excellent option for gardeners who want to expand their sweetbox population and maintain consistency in the overall appearance of their landscape.

In recent years, new sweetbox varieties have been introduced that are specifically bred to have a more uniform growth habit. These varieties are carefully selected to exhibit consistent size and shape, making them an ideal choice for creating a well-groomed garden or landscape design. They can be a great option for those who prefer a neatly maintained garden or have limited space available.

To summarize, sweetbox plants typically grow to be around 10-12 inches tall and 2-3 feet wide. However, they can sometimes reach heights of 2-3 feet, depending on factors like variety and growing conditions. Plants grown from cuttings can vary in size but generally resemble the parent plant. Newer varieties offer more uniform growth habits, making them suitable for creating a well-maintained garden or landscape design.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.