Fragrant Winter Shrub DuoViburnum x bodnantense 'Dawn', Sarcococca confusaArrowood 'Dawn', Christmas Box

Producing a grand summer spectacle is often the focus of attention and it’s all too easy to neglect the more subtle attractions of winter plants. But not only do winter flowering shrubs provide much needed interest during the drabbest months, many also boast fabulous scent – a sensory dimension that is frequently overlooked as colour grabs our attention. With few pollinators on the wing during winter, competition to attract them is fierce and perfume is the lure. Winter flowers may be small, but they often feature knock-out fragrance. Fragrant Winter Shrub Duo offers two of the most fabulously scented shrubs that also continue to perform a crucial role through the rest of the year – acting as strong backbone plants for the main seasonal display.

Fragrant Winter Shrub Duo contains the following varieties:

• Viburnum x bodantense 'Dawn' - In the depths of winter, this hardy, deciduous shrub bursts into life producing masses of richly perfumed blooms on bare, woody stems. The dark pink flowers fade slowly to white before giving way to small, rounded, purple berries in summer. By autumn, the green foliage of Viburnum x bodnantense 'Dawn' transforms into a vibrant cloak of orange and yellow, in one final display before the winter returns. This superb RHS AGM variety has a particularly long season of interest, making it an excellent choice for prominent borders and wildlife gardens. Height: 3m (10'). Spread: 2m (8').
• Sarcococca confusa - An easy to grow shrub. Hiding beneath the leathery foliage, the flowers are somewhat inconspicuous but you won't miss their powerful, honey-like fragrance which is detectable from quite a distance. The flowers are followed by black berries, which stay on the plant for a long time. Christmas Box is a versatile, low maintenance shrub with evergreen foliage that offers all-year-round colour, structure and interest. Height: 2m (6.6'). Spread: 1m (39").

Plant height and spread is seasonal therefore we list by pot size rather than a defined plant size. The height and spread of the plant delivered will vary depending on the season, meaning arrival images are an indication only.

On delivery of your Fragrant Winter Shrub Collection, pot up each individual plant into a larger container and keep sheltered from harsh weather either in an unheated greenhouse or conservatory. Come spring they can be planted outside into their final positions.

Viburnum x bodantense 'Dawn' : Grow Viburnum plants in a sunny or semi shaded position, in any moderately fertile, well drained soil. Prior to planting, incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the soil. Plant Viburnum shrubs at the same depth as they were planted in their pots. Backfill the planting hole and water well to settle the soil. Water regularly throughout the growing season until young plants are fully established. In spring, apply a mulch of well rotted manure or garden compost to the base of the plant. Viburnum requires little pruning. After flowering cut back stems to a healthy bud and reduce any stems that spoil the symmetry of the plant. Caution: Viburnum fruits are harmful if eaten.

Sarcococca confusa: Grow sarcococca in any moist, well drained garden soil in a sheltered position, in semi-shade or shade. Christmas box will tolerate full sun provided that the soil remains moist. Alternatively grow sarcococca plants in patio containers using soil based compost such as John Innes No.3. Feed and water regularly until young shrubs become established. Once established, Sarcococca will require little attention and often thrives on neglect. Pruning is not required other than to shape the plant if required, and to remove and unwanted suckers from the base of the plant.