Plants in genus ruscus
Ruscus hyrcanus
Ruscus hyrcanus is a rare perennial evergreen shrub native to the Black Sea region, including Iran and Azerbaijan. It grows to about 12-20 inches tall with prickly, leathery green stems and produces red berries. This plant is a conservation concern in Azerbaijan and thrives in lowland forests.
Ruscus aculeatus
Ruscus aculeatus, also known as butcher's broom, is a rare evergreen shrub with narrow, sharp foliage. It grows up to three feet tall and four feet wide, thriving in dry shade. This plant is deer-resistant and requires a male or bisexual companion to produce red berries.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Christmas Berry'
Ruscus aculeatus 'Christmas Berry' is a dwarf evergreen plant with spiny, dark green cladodes and bright red berries in winter. It grows to about 1 foot tall and wide over five years and is self-fruiting. This plant is drought-tolerant and suitable for shaded garden areas.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Sparkler'
Ruscus aculeatus 'Sparkler' is a self-fruiting butcher's broom with spiny-leafed evergreen foliage. It matures at 2 feet tall and wide, is drought-tolerant, and prefers shade but can tolerate hot afternoon sun. This plant produces bright red berries from fall through spring.
Ruscus hypoglossum 'Mr Lonely'
Ruscus hypoglossum 'Mr Lonely' is a male clone with evergreen stems and stiff green cladodes. It is durable, deer-resistant, and thrives in dry shade, making it a versatile garden plant.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Angustifolia'
Ruscus aculeatus 'Angustifolia' is an evergreen plant with very narrow and sharp foliage, ideal for dry shade. It forms 3-foot tall by 4-foot wide clumps and is deer-resistant, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardens. This plant's unique foliage and adaptability to shaded environments make it a versatile addition to landscapes.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Wheelers'
Ruscus aculeatus 'Wheelers', a relative of the Eurasian poet's laurel, is known for its spiny, dark evergreen foliage and bright red berries in early fall and winter. This self-fruiting plant can grow up to 54 inches tall and serves as an edible asparagus substitute. Its root extract is used to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids, adding medicinal value to its ornamental appeal.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Elizabeth Lawrence'
Ruscus aculeatus 'Elizabeth Lawrence' is a dwarf, hermaphroditic butcher's broom known for its compact form and winter interest. Growing up to 2 feet tall and wide, it features thick, upright stems with spiny green cladodes. The plant produces an abundance of glossy, bright red fruit from summer through late spring, adding vibrant color to the garden. It is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes.