Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens
A dense, evergreen shrub with small, rounded, glossy green leaves that grow in an opposite arrangement. It is frequently used for hedges and topiary due to its compact nature.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of light). In hot climates, afternoon shade is preferred to prevent leaf scorch.
- Water
- Moderate watering; weekly or more frequently in extreme heat. Drought-tolerant once established, but prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.
- Growth
- Slow-growing evergreen perennial shrub with a rounded, compact habit. Can grow 5 to 15 feet tall if not pruned, with a similar spread.
Care instructions
Requires well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. Mulch to keep roots cool and water regularly until established. Fertilize in early spring before new growth appears.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of light). In hot climates, afternoon shade is preferred to prevent leaf scorch.
Watering
Moderate watering; weekly or more frequently in extreme heat. Drought-tolerant once established, but prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.
Soil
Loamy, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5 to 7.5). Susceptible to root rot in heavy clay.
Hardiness zone
5 through 9
Growth habit
Slow-growing evergreen perennial shrub with a rounded, compact habit. Can grow 5 to 15 feet tall if not pruned, with a similar spread.
Bloom season
Spring (April-May). Produces inconspicuous, tiny, pale yellow-green flowers without petals. Notable for fragrance rather than appearance.
Propagation
Typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or evening. Use rooting hormone and maintain high humidity for best results.
Common pests & issues
Boxwood blight (fungal), boxwood leafminer, and boxwood mites. Root rot can occur if soil remains constantly saturated.
Similar species
Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata), which looks similar but has alternate leaf arrangement, whereas Boxwood has opposite leaf arrangement.