Buxus sempervirens - Common Boxwood

Probably the plant of choice for all kinds of hedges and topiary as it takes pruning exceptionally well, a broadleaf evergreen that's best with some shelter from the winter sun and wind

Height: 15 feet. Spread: 15 feet. Sun: full sun to partial shade. Hardiness zone: 5a.

Ornamental features

Common Boxwood has rich green evergreen foliage on a plant with a round habit of growth. The small round leaves remain green throughout the winter.

Landscape

Common Boxwood is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and can be pruned at anytime. It is a good choice for attracting bees to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Recommended for: Mass Planting, Hedges/Screening, General Garden Use, Topiary, Container Planting.

Planting and growing

Common Boxwood will grow to be about 15 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 15 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for alkaline soils. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. This species is not originally from North America.

Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder.