boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Memorial'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Greenwood Cuttings,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 8
Flowers:
Greenish-cream Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Deep shade, Filtered shade, Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Alkaline, Well-drained
Fruits:
green,olive Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Maintenance:
Moderate
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Boxwood, a type of evergreen shrub, will require moderate watering on a regular basis. Depending on the environment, boxwood can require more or less water. As general guidelines, these plants should be watered once or twice a week during the summer to keep the soil around the roots evenly moist. During milder seasons, such as spring and fall, boxwood should be watered every 2-3 weeks. In winter, water your boxwood only if the soil is very dry. To check if a plant needs to be watered, insert your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle; if it is dry, water the plant, otherwise leave it alone. It is best to water Boxwood as early as possible in the day when the temperatures are cooler, and the water will not evaporate as quickly.
sunlight
Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Memorial') thrives in an area of direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. If grown in a shady location, it may become sparse, thin, and/or leggy with little to no flowering. Full sun or partial sun is the optimal environment for this species, as long as it has protection from hot afternoon sun; this will help the foliage retain its beautiful, vivid color.
pruning
Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Memorial') should be pruned yearly in early spring, immediately before new growth begins. Pruning should remove all dead, broken, diseased, or out-of-shape branches. Avoid pruning back to bare wood, as this can reduce the health of the plant. Instead, selectively prune branches to retain the plants' natural shape. Summer pruning may be necessary to keep the shrub in a desired size and shape. As well, light fertilization in spring may be necessary to replenish nutrients used by the plant throughout the growing season.
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.
