Ruscus aculeatus Description
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This low growing native shrub, with its dense evergreen spinney foliage, is ideal in a naturalistic woodland setting - flourishing under shade. Though not highly attractive it is useful as ground cover, and bears attractive red winter berries. 1m tall by 2m spread.
Strengths, Weaknesses & Design Usage
Strengths of Ruscus aculeatus:
- Sun loving drought tolerant plant
- Spiney growth can deter unwanted visitors!
- Attracts wildlife to feed or nest
- All round tough plant suitable for problem areas
- Provides valuable winter interest
- Evergreen foliage for all year round colour and screening
- Fruit / berry producing
- Attractive form or foliage for all year interest
- Tolerates cold exposed locations
- Tolerates heavy clay soils
- Suitable for planting in full shade
Weaknesses of Ruscus aculeatus
- Poisonous if eaten/irritating sap
- Spiney plant - can scratch young children and gardeners!
- Does not produce showy attractive flowers
Design & Plant Use for Ruscus aculeatus:
- Evergreen plant with attractive foliage for winter interest
- Evergreen shrub suitable for planting in a shady location
View all the plants listed in Genus Ruscus
View other types of ground cover plants with dark green foliage