Butcher's Broom Ruscus aculeatus
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as butcher's broom has a peculiar appearance, characterized primarily by its green, tough, and glossy foliage. These foliage structures, which might be mistaken for leaves, are actually flattened stems that perform the function of leaves, known as cladodes. Each cladode is small and bears a sharp, spine-like point at the tip, making the plant appear prickly. The true leaves of this plant are quite reduced and often go unnoticed. During its blooming period, butcher's broom produces small, greenish-white flowers that are situated in the center of the cladodes. These inconspicuous flowers may eventually give way to red berries, which stand out against the dark green background of the foliage, providing a splash of color and visual interest. The berries can persist on the plant throughout the winter months, adding to the plant's ornamental appeal during the colder seasons. The overall impression of butcher's broom is of a dense, green plant with spiny edges and a coarse texture that is enhanced by its evergreen nature. The stiff and upright branches contribute to the plant's robust and resilient look. The combination of its unique leaf-like structures and the bright red berries creates a distinctive visual profile in the garden or in the wild.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Butcher's Broom, Knee Holly, Sweet Broom, Pettigree, Jew's Myrtle, Box Holly.
Common names
Ruscus flexuosus, Ruscus laxus, Ruscus parasiticus, Ruscus ponticus, Ruscus racemosus, Ruscus splendens, Ruscus streptophyllus, Ruscus strictus, Ruscus aculeatus var. angustifolius, Ruscus aculeatus var. angustatus, Ruscus aculeatus var. laxus, Ruscus aculeatus var. ponticus.
ToxicityTo humans
Butcher's broom, the common name for Ruscus aculeatus, is not commonly regarded as a highly toxic plant to humans. However, ingesting parts of this plant, particularly the berries, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is advisable that humans do not consume any part of the Butcher's broom to avoid these potential adverse effects.
To pets
For pets, the Butcher's broom, which is also known as Ruscus aculeatus, may present more risk. If pets ingest parts of the plant, especially the berries, they might experience symptoms similar to humans, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pets may also show signs of abdominal pain. It's important to keep Butcher's broom out of reach of household pets and seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs and any symptoms develop.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as butcher's-broom, is an evergreen shrub that provides year-round garden interest with its stiff, green foliage.
- Drought resistance: It is well-suited for xeriscaping due to its ability to withstand dry conditions once established.
- Shade tolerance: Butcher's-broom can grow in shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for understory plantings or dark corners of the garden.
- Low maintenance: This plant requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Erosion control: The dense root system of butcher's-broom helps prevent soil erosion, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Winter interest: The plant sometimes produces bright red berries in the winter, adding a pop of color during the drab colder months.
- Privacy: Its thick foliage can be used to create a natural, evergreen screen for privacy or to block unsightly views.
- Wildlife support: Though not its primary benefit, the berries of butcher's-broom can provide food for birds during the winter months.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher's Broom, contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.
- Venotonic: It is used to increase venous tone and improve circulation, particularly in cases of chronic venous insufficiency.
- Diuretic: The plant has diuretic properties that promote the excretion of urine, which can be useful in relieving fluid retention.
- Hemorrhoidal treatment: Ruscus aculeatus is traditionally used to alleviate the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids such as swelling and discomfort.
- Vasoconstrictor: The saponins present in the plant may cause vasoconstriction, which helps in strengthening capillary walls and decreasing permeability.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher's-broom, can be used for festive decoration, particularly in winter, due to its evergreen and holly-like appearance.
- The plant's mature berries may be used for crafting, such as in wreaths or arrangements, giving a pop of red color.
- Traditional brooms were once made from bundles of Butcher's-broom, which is where the plant got its common name.
- Considered a low-maintenance ground cover, it can be planted in gardens to suppress weeds due to its dense root system.
- Butcher's-broom can provide habitat for wildlife, as birds may nest in its dense thickets and eat its berries.
- When dried, the branches of Butcher's-broom can be used in flower arrangements, adding texture and visual interest.
- Its wood is good for small woodcarving projects, producing finely detailed work due to its hardness.
- In some cultures, it is believed to offer protection against witches, and hence, was hung around homes for this purpose.
- The rigid stems of Butcher's-broom can be utilized in basket weaving, offering strength and durability to the finished product.
- Butcher's-broom's dense growth can also be used as a natural barrier or to create privacy screens in gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiButcher's-broom is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityButcher's-broom is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher's-broom, has tough, evergreen leaves which symbolize the ability to withstand adversities and recover from hardships.
- Protection: The sharp, spine-like leaves of the Butcher's-broom suggest a symbolism of warding off negative forces, much like a natural barrier.
- Humility: Butcher's-broom often grows in understory habitats, which can be connected to the concept of humility, staying grounded, and not seeking the limelight.
WaterThe plant commonly known as Butcher's-broom should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week during active growth periods. It's important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Generally, watering with about 16 to 32 ounces of water should be sufficient, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. During the dormant period in winter, reduce watering to every two to three weeks. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
LightButcher's-broom thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot that receives dappled sunlight or only indirect light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct, harsh sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. A north-facing window or a shaded area of a room would be ideal for Butcher's-broom.
TemperatureButcher's-broom prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, ideally between 50 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, for optimal growth, maintaining a cooler temperature within the given range is recommended.
PruningButcher's-broom requires minimal pruning, primarily to remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Pruning can be done any time of year, but it's best carried out in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning every two to three years is often sufficient unless shaping is desired or if the plant has sustained damage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilButcher's broom thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part peat or compost to maintain moisture without waterlogging. The ideal soil pH for Butcher's broom is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingButcher's broom should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only one size larger than the current one to prevent overpotting.
Humidity & MistingButcher's broom prefers moderate humidity levels, typically between 40-60%, which is common in most home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in moderate light, well-draining soil, and water sparingly.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered location, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleRuscus aculeatus, commonly known as Butcher's-broom, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, which can be slow and irregular, sometimes taking multiple seasons. Upon germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants with fine roots and small shoots. As they mature, the plants form rhizomes and tough, erect stems which appear to be leaves but are actually flattened stems called cladodes. Each cladode can bear a small flower, with the plants being dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. Flowers on female plants, if fertilized, develop into red berries by autumn, containing seeds for dispersal. Over the years, Butcher’s-broom plants can develop into dense clumps through clonal growth from the rhizomes, potentially living for many years and staying green all year round.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Ruscus aculeatus, commonly known as butcher's broom, is typically propagated through division of the rhizomes. Dividing the plant is ideally done in the early spring, just before the growing season begins. To propagate, one would dig up an established butcher's broom, taking care to maintain a generous amount of soil around the roots. The rhizomes are then carefully separated into smaller clumps, ensuring that each section has at least one growth point or bud. These sections are replanted at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 24 inches (approximately 61 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Regular watering is essential until the new plants have established a strong root system. This method allows for the relatively quick establishment of new plants and is popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
