Species boxwood

boxwood

Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw'

Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw') is an amazing evergreen shrub. It has deep green foliage that stands out all year long, with a slow growth rate that makes it perfect for a well-maintained garden. A resilient plant, it can withstand heavy pruning and still look lush and full. It is drought-tolerant and resistant to most pests and diseases. Boxwood provides a great backdrop for other plants. Being versatile, they can be pruned into round, square and even topiary shapes. Boxwood can also be used as a privacy screen, creating a beautiful living fence to enclose your property. All in all, Boxwood is a stunning shrub.

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:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw') should be watered often but not heavily. During the summer months, when temperatures are warm, you should water this plant at least twice a week. In hotter climates or during a longer and more intense drought season, increasing the frequency of watering to 3 or more times a week is recommended. During the winter months, when temperatures are cooler, water the plant once a week. When watering, make sure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy, and that the water is draining away properly. Make sure to never allow the soil to dry out completely.

sunlight

Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw') plants prefer full sun, meaning 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day. Generally, the ideal time of day for the most sunlight is between 8 am and 6 pm. This is the time when the sun is highest and light is at optimum intensity; however, plants can still benefit from morning light as well. It is important to note that while boxwood prefers full sun, it does best with some relief from the direct light during the hottest parts of the day (midday) to prevent scorching of the foliage.

pruning

Boxwoods (Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw') should be pruned twice a year for optimal growth and visual appeal. Pruning should begin in the early spring, around March or April, and should focus on removing any dead or overcrowded branches. All cut stems should be trimmed back to their base, and any diseased wood should be removed and discarded. Then, late in the summer, around August or September, another pruning should be done to reshape the plant and to keep the desired form. Smaller shoots can be trimmed back to their base, while slightly larger branches can be trimmed to just above a leaf bud or 2. During this time, branches can also be lightly thinned out to increase airflow and light penetration. Always clean and sterilize your pruning tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of pests and disease.

Season

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

Harvesting of Buxus sempervirens 'Henry Shaw' (boxwood) typically begins in late summer or early fall, 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 sempervirens 'Henry Shaw' (boxwood) typically begins in late summer or early fall, 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.