Ruscus hypoglossum (female)

Spineless Butchers Broom Asparagaceae

A handsome, evergreen rhizomatous perennial forming slowly expanding clumps of arching stems clothed with broad, glossy, spineless cladodes. Small greenish-cream flowers appear directly on the cladodes in spring, often followed by brilliant red berries on female plants. The broad floral bract gives rise to the traditional name ‘Double Tongue’, with the bract and cladode appearing like two overlapping tongues. 

Native from southern and central Europe eastwards through the Balkans and Crimea to northern Türkiye, R. hypoglossum is an excellent plant for difficult dry shade, particularly beneath established trees where its evergreen foliage provides year-round structure. It has been cultivated in Britain since at least the 16th century and is remarkably tolerant of root competition. 

The young swollen shoots and fruits have been traditionally eaten in parts of its native range, although it is principally of ornamental value in British gardens. The species is dioecious, so male and female plants are required if berries are wanted. 

Grow in moist but well-drained or dry soil in full shade to partial shade. It is remarkably adaptable, tolerating both acid and alkaline soils and considerable drought once established. Allow plenty of room for its slowly spreading rhizomes.

Flowering: April–May
Fruit: Summer–autumn
Hardiness: H5, approximately –15 to –10°C
Height: 30–50cm
Spread: 50–100cm