Scented Winter plants

Two of my favourite scented plants at this time of year are sarcococca and mahonia.

I have both in my front garden and every time I walk past them at this time of year, I am greeted with the most gorgeous fragrance.

Both shrubs are evergreen and do well in shade. The flowers on Sarcococca confusa (which is pictured below) has tiny white firework like flowers, which have a sweet vanilla scent and if left unpruned, the flowers are followed by black berries. Sarcococca confusa grows to around 2m in height by 1m spread and have dark glossy leaves which provide a good back drop for other plants.

Mahonias are particularly good for difficult areas where nothing else will thrive, such as under trees. Some mahonias can grow quite tall, so take note of the height when selecting.

I tend to plant mahonias at the back of borders since the holly like leaves can be quite prickly, but the scent carries well, so you don't have to get too close to enjoy.

Sarcococca confusa

Mahonia x media 'Charity'