Family Roseaceae
Originating from S.W Europe

A dense, bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree with red stalks bearing glossy, lustrous, dark green, slightly wavy-edged leaves. Produces a profusion of slender spikes of scented white flowers in June and dark purple berries in autumn, which may be harmful if ingested.
Despite originating from Southern Spain and Portugal it is extremely hardy and has been cultivated in the UK from the mid seventeenth century.
Few evergreens can surpass it in merit as an evergreen hedging plant, and it will even thrive in dry shade once established. But, it is a versatile plant and can be used as a backdrop to other plants in a border or, with training, transformed into an architectural topiary beauty.
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in sun/shade.

Height and spread after 4 – 5 years 2.5m x 2.5m
Semi mature height and spread after 10 – 12 years if not clipped or pruned 4m x 4m
Potential mature height and spread after 20 – 25 years 8m x 8m