Common Boxwood - Buxus Sempervirens

The common box, European box, or boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is a timeless favorite for gardeners. This versatile evergreen shrub boasts a rich history and offers a multitude of uses in your landscape.

Buxus sempervirens is a slow-growing shrub that can reach heights of 1-9 meters (3-30 ft) with a trunk diameter of up to 20 cm (8 in). Exceptionally old specimens can grow as tall as 10 meters (33 ft) with a 45 cm (18 in) diameter trunk. Its dense foliage consists of small, glossy green to yellow-green leaves (1.5-3 cm long) arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. Inconspicuous, sweetly scented greenish-yellow flowers bloom in clusters during spring, followed by small, three-lobed capsules containing seeds.

Care Instructions:

• Light: Buxus sempervirens thrives in full sun to part shade. In full sun, ensure consistent moisture to prevent scorching.
• Soil: Plant your boxwood in well-drained, evenly moist soil with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6.0-7.5). Loamy mixes are ideal.
• Watering: Water your boxwood regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Pruning: This shrub responds well to pruning and can be shaped into various forms, making it ideal for hedges, topiaries, or borders. Prune in late spring or early summer.
• Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer applied monthly can promote healthy growth.

Uses:

Buxus sempervirens is a versatile plant with a multitude of uses in the landscape:

• Hedges: The dense, slow-growing nature of boxwood makes it perfect for creating formal or informal hedges.
• Topiaries: The ease of shaping allows for creating unique topiary designs.
• Foundation plantings: Boxwood provides year-round greenery to beautify the base of your house.
• Specimens: Mature boxwood specimens can become majestic focal points in your garden.
• Containers: Dwarf varieties can thrive in pots for patios and balconies.