In the floristry trade two varieties of ruscus are commonly used - Ruscus Aculeatus, (known as Soft Ruscus), and Ruscus Hypophyllum, (known as Hard Ruscus).

Soft Ruscus:
Soft Ruscus is an evergreen shrub native to Eurasia. It has small pointed leaves growing from long, trailing stems. After flowering, soft ruscus is covered with lovely orange berries. Other common names for Ruscus Aculeatus are: Butchers Broom, Knee Holly, Kneeholm, Sweet Broom and Jew's Myrtle.

In the wholesale flower markets, soft ruscus is sold in 130cm or 60cm lengths and there are usually 4 - 5 stems per bunch. Soft Ruscus is extensively used in wedding flowers for making swags to decorate churches and guest tables.

Hard Ruscus:
Hard Ruscus is completely different to Soft Ruscus. It takes a more upright form and has larger round leaves. Hard Ruscus is also known as 'Israeli Ruscus'.

In the wholesale flower markets, hard ruscus is sold in wraps of 50 stems. Different stem lengths are available in 55cm, 60cm, 70cm and 80cm. Hard Ruscus should always be deep green in colour. When hard ruscus gets old it turns to a light, yellowy green.

You can buy wholesale ruscus on our Web-Shop by clicking here.