Ruscus

Ruscus is a genus of evergreen flowering plants in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Nolinoideae. Native to Europe, North Africa, the Caucasus, and western Asia, the genus includes several species commonly known as butcher's broom and related forms. Modern classifications place Ruscus within Asparagaceae, though it was previously treated as a separate family, Ruscaceae.

Description: Species are shrubs or subshrubs with short rhizomes. They bear flattened stems called cladodes that function as leaves and carry chlorophyll; true leaves are reduced to minute scales. Flowers are small and usually inconspicuous, produced on the upper surface of the cladodes; fruits are bright red berries containing one or more seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Ruscus species are found in woodland and scrub across temperate regions of Europe, North Africa, the Caucasus, and western Asia. They prefer shaded, well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions once established.

Selected species: The best known is Ruscus aculeatus, butcher's broom, with stiff, spine-tipped cladodes. Ruscus hypoglossum, tongue-leaved ruscus, has larger cladodes. Other cultivated species occur in Mediterranean habitats and are grown for their evergreen foliage and architectural form.

Cultivation and use: Ruscus is grown as an ornamental plant for year-round evergreen foliage, often in shade gardens and as container plants in suitable climates. It is typically propagated by division or seed, with seeds requiring stratification. In horticulture, the genus is valued for its tolerance of shade and drought and its distinctive cladodes.