Species boxwood
Green-yellow leaves on green stems.

boxwood

Buxus microphylla

Also Known As - Korean boxwood
Boxwood (Buxus microphylla) is an amazing evergreen shrub species that is prized for its hardy structure, neat growth habit, undemanding nature and drought tolerance. It is also incredibly useful, providing food and shelter for beneficial wildlife and being used for topiary and hedging to provide structure and elegance to any outdoor space. Its dark green foliage is very attractive, as is its small, creamy yellow flowers and black-blue fruit. The evergreen leaves have the additional bonus of providing year round color, texture and form to any garden. Boxwood is an incredibly adaptable species and thrives in a variety of light conditions and soil types. Its incredible versatility makes it a great choice for any garden!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

part sun/part shade,full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Summer Ready In Winter

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

For best results, boxwood should be watered about once per week. The amount will depend on the particular boxwood, soil type, climate, and other factors. Generally, the boxwood should get enough water so that the topsoil feels moist but not soggy. If the soil dries out completely, it is important to water deeply to ensure the entire boxwood root system is hydrated. In hot and dry climates, additional watering may be necessary.

sunlight

Boxwood is a popular ornamental evergreen shrub reachable in a variety of sizes and shapes. Boxwood needs full sun to partial shade to thrive best, especially if planting in a warmer climate. In the winter months, boxwood needs about 4-5 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. In the summer months, they can tolerate a little more sun but should not be placed in full, direct sun for more than 6 hours per day.

pruning

Boxwood (Buxus microphylla) should be pruned in spring and autumn. During the spring pruning, remove dead, dying, and crossing branches in order to open up the canopy and stimulate new growth. In autumn, prune lightly, focusing only on shaping and thinning out crowded areas. Prune no more than 1/3 of the total volume of the plant when pruning.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Boxwood typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Boxwood typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Buxus microphylla is usually in the months of July and August.

Hardiness Map

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.