The rather insignificant flowers of this dense evergreen shrub produce a wonderful winter fragrance so plant it near to the house, preferably in a spot sheltered from drying cold winds. The leaves are small, oval and a glossy dark green. The clusters of fragrant white flowers produced in midwinter are followed by small glossy black berries.
A hardy plant which prefers a shaded or semi shaded spot, it likes a moist but well drained, fertile, humus-rich soil but will tolerate atmospheric pollution and a little neglect.
Earlier this year I bought a small specimen which I have planted in a pot and placed against a low wall near to the log store. This should be a good place to appreciate the winter fragrance whilst collecting wood for the fire.
