Overview and description of the Italian ruscus tree
| Common Name | Poet’s Laurel, Butcher’s broom, and box holly | Maintenance | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| Native Region | Mediterranean regions | Average Height | 3 feet |
| Plant Type | Sub-shrub | Average Width | 2-4 feet |
Botanically known as the Ruscus aculeatus, the Italian ruscus gets its name from its native habitat in Southern Europe and Italy. This evergreen shrub grows glossy green leaves and red berries in winter, which are not edible.
This plant is mostly used in flower arrangements for weddings and is best paired with white hydrangeas and peonies.
Key features and benefits of the Italian ruscus:
- The Italian ruscus is an evergreen shrub that does not have true leaves but rather flattened, sharp green cladodes.
- It is used popularly in flower arrangements and wreaths to create a natural contrast to the delicate structure and the soft colours of the flowers, which can last up to 14 days in a vase.
- The Italian ruscus plant is drought-tolerant once established, but it takes about 10 years for it to reach its maximum height, as it has an extremely slow growth rate.
- Apart from the lush, green leaves, it also grows small white flowers and red berries, which are toxic for consumption.
- The best way to place the Italian ruscus is in a vase with flower food after pruning its stems for better water absorption. Make sure the storage temperature is maintained between 34°F and 41°F for a thriving plant.
Care guide for the Italian ruscus:
- Growing Zone: USDA Hardiness zone 6 – 9
- Water Needs: Moderate
- Soil Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil
- Sunlight Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Growth Rate: Slow
Advantages
- The Italian ruscus plant is a low-maintenance shrub that is drought-tolerant once established.
- It is popularly used in wedding flower arrangements due to its dark green foliage and can last up to 8 days in water.
- These shrubs, as indoor plants, are commonly used to add a touch of greenery to the space.
- Apart from common uses, these plants also have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat CVI.
Disadvantages
- The Italian ruscus leaves are considered toxic to pets, and the red berries are inedible.
- Although not very common, handling the Italian ruscus for a prolonged period of time can also cause skin irritation in certain individuals.
- While the Italian ruscus greenery is popular in bouquets, it does not have a distinctive fragrance.
- These evergreen shrubs have an extremely slow growth rate and can take about 2-5 years to reach their full height of 4 feet.
John –
Purchased this plant a week ago, and these glossy green leaves look so elegant with my flower arrangements.
Steven –
The Italian ruscus requires minimal care and attention. I personally love the shape of the leaves and the way it compliments the home decor.
Sarah J –
I paired the plant with white hydrangeas, and they look perfect together. It works well both as an indoor and filler plant in bouquets.
Nick –
This plant is extremel low- maintenance and looks perfect with delicate flowers.