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Clusters of small sweetly scented deep pink buds open in January and February and are followed by rounded purple-black berries. This evergreen shrub thrives in a sunny sheltered position. Try it in a mixed or winter border or next to a path where its fragrance can be appreciated. Strongly upright in habit it looks wonderful underplanted with a carpet of magenta or white Cyclamen coum. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

• Garden care: Keep pruning to a minimum since the plant is very susceptible to die-back. Where necessary after flowering lightly trim back to remove misplaced branches and maintain a compact habit.