Family: Ruscaceae

Originating from western Europe, North Africa, Madeira, the Azores and Iran, these six species of dwarf, evergreen shrubs are useful for wood-land gardens and other shady parts of the garden. Their rootstocks travel underground to form colonies. They are often found growing in dense shade, particularly amongst the roots of trees, although they will also grow in sunny spots. The leaves are actually flattened stems and the unisexual flowers are either solitary or borne in clusters in the centre of the modified leaves. The female plants produce attractive, shiny, red berries.

Species

R. aculeatus, box holly or butcher's broom, is a hardy shrub, to 1 m (3 ft), with erect, branching stems. The tiny, green, star-shaped flowers are followed by large, red berries. Dried sprays are used in floral decoration. This species occasionally produces hermaphrodite forms.

Cultivation

These shrubs grow easily in any garden soil, thriving in shaded areas. Both sexes should be planted together for production of the berries. Propagate from seed sown outdoors as soon as ripe, or by division in spring.

Climate

Zone 7.