Product Description:
Ruscus aculeatus, also called butcher’s broom, is a hardy shrub that’s easy to grow as it requires minimal maintenance. As long as ruscus is planted in an area with shade, it does not need much care beyond a small amount of fertilizer and regular thinning. Ruscus can be an attractive addition to a garden. If you’re looking for a drought-tolerant, shade-loving, deer-resistant plant, Ruscus is a good bet. Ruscus is a low-growing, mounding plant, often valued as a ground cover. At maturity, Ruscus reaches heights of 3 feet (1 m.) or less, and a width of about 2 to 4 feet (0.5 to 1 m.).The bright green leaves and red berries of Ruscus create vibrant color in winter.
Light:
Ruscus thrives in full or partial shade, and because it is drought-tolerant, will do well in your dry shade areas.
Soil:
This plant is tolerant of many soil types including clay or alkaline soils. Its preferred soil culture is a well-drained, slightly acidic sandy loam.
Water:
Ruscus aculeatus requires standard amounts of water. This means the soil should be kept consistently moist and watered as soon as the top few inches get dry.
Temperature and Humidity:
Ideal growing temperatures are 55-85°F (12-30°C). Ruscus has no special humidity needs.
Fertilizer:
Ruscus does not necessarily require fertilization. However, young plants can be fertilized with high-phosphorous fertilizer to encourage swift toot growth and establishment.
Pruning:
Being a slow-growing and well-shaped perennial, the ruscus doesn’t require much pruning. Damaged branches or leaves should be trimmed as needed. Dead shoots should be cut to ground level in spring.
