Species boxwood Guide
Green leaves on green stalks.

boxwood

Buxus microphylla 'Green Pillow'

Also Known As - Korean boxwood

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Filtered shade, Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water 'Green Pillow' boxwood when the soil feels dry to the touch, usually every 7 to 10 days. You can check the soil by sticking your finger about 2 inches down into it. If it's damp, wait a few days before watering again. The amount of water you should apply will vary depending on the size of the plant, the temperature outside, and the amount of sun and wind it is exposed to. Generally, soak the ground until the water starts to seep into the ground 1 to 2 feet away from the plant. Letting the water run slowly over the foliage for a few minutes is also beneficial.

sunlight

Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Green Pillow') is a plant species that generally grows best in full, direct sunlight. It requires 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day, ideally during the morning or the early afternoon when the sun is not at its hottest. To keep the plant from drying out too quickly, indirect sunlight or filtered sunlight is also acceptable. Morning sunlight should be avoided as it can cause sunburn on tender young foliage. Planting in the shade will result in fewer flowers and less vigorous growth.

pruning

For boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Green Pillow') pruning, it should be done in late winter or early spring. Prune lightly, removing no more than 1-third of the total growth. This will help ensure more compact growth and a healthy plant. Be sure to use sharp, clean pruning tools and make clean, flat-topped cuts. Avoid over-pruning, as this can stress the plant and damage its appearance. Always remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches as you prune.

FAQ

Is Boxwood a popular landscape plant?

Yes, Boxwood is a popular landscape plant, due to its versatility in design, hardiness in cold temperatures, attractive foliage and its ability to be pruned into a variety of shapes. It makes an attractive year-round hedge, foundation plant or edging and, if left unpruned, can be grown as a small tree or shrub. Boxwoods can be planted either in the sun or partial shade and are a great addition to gardens of any size.

Are Boxwoods evergreen?

Yes, boxwoods are evergreen. They have deep green foliage and remain an attractive evergreen tree year-round, allowing for a versatile way to add color and structure to outdoor spaces. Boxwoods are also extremely easy to grow, making them a great choice for novice gardeners. Additionally, boxwoods are relatively low maintenance and can handle some light pruning if needed.

Can Boxwoods be trimmed into shapes?

Yes, boxwoods can be trimmed into shapes. With regular maintenance and occasional pruning, they can be cut and shaped into hedges, topiary, round forms and other creative patterns. Pruning them regularly also ensures that they remain healthy and look their best. It is important to trim them with the right tools and techniques in order to keep them healthy, while also achieving the desired shape.

Could Boxwoods be used as a hedge plant?

Yes, boxwoods can be used as a hedge plant. They are low-maintenance, evergreen shrubs that can be trimmed to create uniform hedges or shaped into topiary. Boxwoods are also resistant to disease and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. They are ideal for small to medium hedges and make an attractive backdrop for annual and perennial flowers.

Should Boxwoods be planted in full sun or shade?

It depends on the variety of boxwood you have. Some varieties, such as English boxwood, are best planted in full sun for optimal growth and form. However, other varieties such as American and Korean boxwood do better in partial shade due to the more intense heat of full sun. In areas with long, hot summers and mild winters, provide some shade protection to prevent over-heating and drying out, especially during the hottest times of day.