Species boxwood
Dark-green leaves with  lime petiole, stem and midrib.

boxwood

Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green'

Also Known As - Korean boxwood
Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green') is an amazing evergreen shrub due to its unique green foliage, compact growth habit and versatility. With deep green leaves that are often tinted with yellow or gray-green, it is a beautiful addition to any garden. It is a low-maintenance shrub, making it a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Boxwood is often used to line walkways and garden beds, topiary sculptures and more. Not only is it an attractive feature in a landscape, but it is also an essential plant for wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and other animals.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division

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

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green') should be watered once to twice a week, depending on the soil. The soil should feel moist but not soggy when touched. During hot, dry weather, the plant may need more frequent watering. In the winter months, the watering frequency can be decreased to once a week. During cold weather, the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. After watering, allow the soil to dry out partly before re-watering. If the plant is in a container, always check the root area before watering to be sure that the soil is dry.

sunlight

Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Apple Green’) does best in full sun or light shade. It needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth and maximum health. In areas with intense heat and sun exposure, it may need a bit of afternoon shade. When planting, consider the orientation of the plant and the location of the sun so that the leaves do not become sunburnt. When placing your boxwood in more sun exposed locations, be sure to provide some light shade in the afternoon until the shrub is established.

pruning

Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green') should be pruned lightly in early spring, before new growth begins. When pruning, carefully remove dead or damaged branches and thin overgrown areas to improve air circulation. Avoid severe pruning because this shrub does not tolerate it well. Light and occasional shaping is recommended to promote density, form, and growth.

Season

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

Harvesting of Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green' typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

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

Harvesting of Buxus microphylla 'Apple Green' typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

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.