Boxwood: In-Depth Guide to Planting, Care, Pruning, and More

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, boxwood holds a few secrets for you. This comprehensive guide to boxwood has everything you need to know. Here we have tried to cover almost all points related to boxwood shrubs so that you can get answers to all your queries. Get a deeper understanding of boxwood with this guide and grow your own spectacular, lush green landscape! We hope this helps you and please continue reading below…

In-Depth Guide for Boxwood Shrubs

In this interesting article, you are getting the opportunity to learn about boxwood in depth. While reading this you will know what is boxwood and why is it so popular. Plus, 19 great varieties to choose from, including planting tips, care tips, management needs, pruning, winter care, 3 different methods of propagation, its problems, and diagnosis. and many more.

At a Glance

What is a Boxwood Shrubs?

Boxwood bush is known as a popular evergreen plant. It belongs to the Buxus genus. There are over 100 species, hybrids, and cultivars of the boxwood shrubs. They differ in size, shape, leaf color, and hardness. Boxwood shrubs are especially popular for landscaping. It is considered suitable for hedges, topiaries, and containers. They are liked because of their beautiful leaves, which are small, oval, and leathery. Their leaves are usually dark green on the upper side. At the same time, their lower parts are yellow-green. They create a combination of yellow and green so that the surrounding environment becomes lush green and soothing to the eyes.

Why is it called ‘Boxwood’?

Initially, boxwood was grown not because of its bushy qualities, but because of the wood obtained from it. Based on existing evidence, boxwood was first grown in Egypt around 4000 BC.

Boxwood’s wood is very hard, fine-grained, and resistant to splitting and chipping. Together it almost looks like ivory. Because of these properties, in ancient times, it was used to make boxes and various wooden objects (including both ordinary and luxury objects). The plant began to be referred to in English by the name “box” from about the 15th century, due to its wood being used to make boxes. The word “box” in “boxwood” is believed to come from the Latin word “boxus” or “buxus”, meaning “box tree”.

Why are Boxwoods Popular?

Boxwoods are popular because they are versatile, evergreen, and easy to shape. They can be used for a variety of landscaping purposes, such as hedges, topiaries, containers, and focal points. They also have a classic and elegant appearance that matches other plants.

As another reason, there is hardly any other plant that provides structure throughout the year like boxwood shrubs. It defines places by its evergreen presence. Whereas it is beyond the risk of being harmed by animals (such as deer).

19 Types of Boxwood: Choose Perfect Variety for Your Yard (2024)

There are hundreds of varieties available in the market and all have different growth habits, requirements, and performance potential at the site, structure, beauty, etc. Below is a brief description of some of the main and most popular boxwood shrub varieties, including their mature heights, spread, etc. If you want to know in detail about the types (or varieties) of boxwood, then read our detailed article: 19 Types of Boxwood.

Mature Height/Spread

New gardeners often have a question about the size and height of a boxwood bush. Based on these facts, choosing the right variety for yourself and planning is the right step. The mature height and spread of boxwood bushes depend on the species and variety. Here are some common examples to help you understand:

• Common or American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens):

It grows as a widely spreading shrub or small tree. This shrub with dense, evergreen leaves reaches a mature height of 10 to 15 feet and has a spread of 10 to 15 feet.

• Littleleaf or Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla):

It is a low-growing, evergreen shrub. It has a more compact growth habit. This small leaf variety has a mature height of 4 feet and a spread of up to 4 feet.

• Korean Boxwood (Buxus sinica var. insularis):

This is a more cold-tolerant and slow-growing variety that comes under the Littleleaf Boxwood. Its mature height is 2 feet and its spread is up to 3 feet.

• Sprinter Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Bulthouse’):

This is a fast-growing variety within the Littleleaf Boxwood. It has shiny, dark green leaves. Its mature height is 2 to 4 feet and a spread of 2 to 4 feet.

Planting Tips

Before choosing its planting location, you should consider two things. First, for what purpose do you want to use it? Second, which variety is best according to your needs? For help in both these aspects, read about the uses of boxwood shrubs and Different Boxwood Varieties below.

Where to plant boxwood

In general, boxwood does well in full sun to partial shade. But it cannot tolerate extreme heat. It would be a good idea to give it some dappled shade in hot weather. For this, loamy soil, which is evenly moist and has good drainage, is necessary. Due to their shallow roots, the soil where they are planted has to be protected from heat. It is also important to protect these plants from strong winds, for this one should avoid planting the plants in south-western areas where strong winds can disturb them.

Different varieties of boxwood require different zones and pH. It requires a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Test the soil and do appropriate treatment. On the other hand, it is planted in zones 4 to 9 depending on the variety.

When to plant boxwood

The best time for planting boxwood is spring or summer. Planting at this time gives it a chance to grow and develop throughout the growing season and become well-established by the time the winter months arrive.

How to Plant Boxwood

The process of planting boxwood is not very difficult. The process is as follows…

• Dig a hole that’s the depth of the boxwood’s root ball.
• This hole should be approximately two to three times the size of the hole.
• Take the plant out of the nursery pot and loosen its roots a little with gentle hands.
• Now put it in the hole and fill it with soil. But keep in mind that the top of the plant should be slightly above the soil level.
• Water the plant thoroughly.
• The roots of boxwood are shallow. Therefore there is a need to protect their roots from heat. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the roots of each plant. Remember that this mulching should be about 2 inches away (outside) from the stem of the plant.

What should be the distance between two boxwood plants?

It is very important to keep proper distance between two plants while planting. If this is not taken care of, you may not get the look you want. These distances depend on many things. Such as its intended use, mature size, and variety. Here are some general suggestions that you may consider.

• Dwarf (or small) boxwoods are often chosen for hedges or foundation plantings. Planting them at a distance of about 2 to 3 feet is appropriate.
• Medium-sized boxwood varieties can be planted about 3 to 4 feet apart.
• The largest varieties of boxwood can grow up to about 20 feet wide. But it takes many years. But initially, a distance of 5 to 8 feet is usually sufficient for their planting. Later you can move or restore them as per your need.

Care Tips

Lights

Boxwood plants have very different demands on light depending on the variety. Some of these can take full sun to full shade, while others thrive in more shade and suffer burn in too much sun. The best way to find out how much sunlight is required is to look at the specific plant you are purchasing.

Soil

Boxwood bushes require well-drained soil. It does not like stagnant water. It would be better to plant them slightly above the soil level so that water does not accumulate near the stem. They prefer soil pH in the 6.5 to 7.5 range. However, they can tolerate soils with low pH. If necessary, test your soil before planting to determine if you need to add compost or other amendments.

Water

For the first two years after planting, boxwoods require deep watering every week. Avoid shallow watering, as moisture will not be able to reach the depth of the roots. Water the mature plant deeply every 2 to 4 weeks. If it rains in your area then watering will have to be done more or less. For example, if rainfall is less than one inch per week, continue watering in the above ratio. At the same time, if the rainfall is more than one inch per week then there is no need to water. You can check how much rain your garden has received with a rain gauge.

If for some reason you are not able to water it at the above interval, do not worry, it will not die. Once established, boxwood shrubs can easily handle drought for some time.

Temperature and Humidity

It is planted in zones 4 to 9 depending on the variety. Some selected varieties can even tolerate temperatures as cold as -35 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus these varieties grow in zone 3. Its needs change when the climate becomes hot or cold. In the hottest climates, boxwood requires extra water and some shade. Whereas in cold climates, efforts should be made to protect it from cold winds and frost.

Boxwood can tolerate varying levels of humidity. To some extent, it also depends on their type. It tolerates a minimum of 10 percent and a maximum of 90 percent humidity.

Fertilizer

Although boxwood plants do not require fertilizer. But in some circumstances, it becomes necessary to give fertilizer. Test the soil in the spring when first planted and in subsequent years. If a deficiency of nutrients is detected in the soil, then use fertilizer accordingly. It would be best to apply a liquid all-purpose fertilizer in early spring.

On the other hand, the number of leaves in any plant depends on nitrogen. Boxwood is often prone to nitrogen deficiency. As a result, some of its leaves (especially the leaves in the lower parts) start turning yellow. Or they start falling prematurely and in greater numbers. If you get such signs, you will need to apply the right fertilizer.

Boxwood Pruning

The boxwood you choose serves a purpose. You like to keep them in a particular shape and this is largely possible through pruning. Pruning of boxwood shrubs has two benefits. First, to encourage proper growth of branches and leaves, second, to maintain the desired shape you want.

The best time to prune is at the beginning of winter. But if you want, you can do pruning anytime throughout the year, when the temperature is above zero. Take special care not to cut more than one-third of the plant at a time. You can also thin your boxwood bushes to improve airflow. This is an annual process, and doing it more than once a year can cause serious damage to the plant.

Boxwood Winter Care Tips

New plants need a little more care in winter. While mature boxwoods do not require much care during the winter. Nevertheless, some necessary steps must be taken from the safety point of view. This keeps your plants safe and will be ready to fill your garden with new energy next spring. Here are some tips you should consider to protect boxwood from winter damage and winter burn…

• The biggest enemy of boxwood shrubs in winter is frosty winds. Choosing correct and protected sites during planting reduces your worries to a great extent. The north or east direction of your garden is better in terms of winds. If for some reason you have planted them in a southern or western exposure, you should try to protect them from winds through a structural barrier. Like, a wall or solid fence. They also get protection from the winds from the group of trees.
• If the mentioned protection arrangements are not in place, protect your plants in winter using burlap to prevent the plants from burning. Install burlap after the first hard frost.
• Apart from burlap, plastic wildlife netting can be used to protect the boxwood from snow and its damage. While wrapping them, keep in mind that it should not be too tight and the flow of air should not be blocked.
• Before winter, remove late new tender growth. Remove damaged, diseased, or weak branches using sterile pruning shears. If possible, free them from pests and diseases also.
• To protect from freezing and maintain heat, you can take the help of a layer of organic mulch up to 2-3″. But take care that the stem at the base of the plant is not covered.

Potting and Repotting Boxwood

Growing boxwood in containers is a very easy task. Whereas potting and repotting boxwood is an important process related to it. Potting and repotting boxwood begins with choosing the correct container. For this, select a container with large holes for good drainage. This will help in draining excess water and the roots will not remain wet. This is important because it is very important to protect the roots from rot and other diseases and prevent it from dying. It would be better to choose a slightly larger container. Because it works to support the root systems for a few years and encourages the plants to continue growing. Selecting a container at least six to 12 to 18 inches wider than the plant’s root ball is recommended.

Once you have selected the container, it is time to plant the plant. Carefully take the plant out of the old container. Take care that there is no damage to its roots. Loosen the root ball a bit. Use your hands to separate the roots if necessary. Then plant the boxwood with the root ball down about an inch from the top of the container and gently backfill the soil around the root ball. Then add plenty of water so that moisture can be created in the soil. Add organic mulch to the soil to help control moisture and drainage. It likes fresh soil whose pH range is 6.0-7.0. Boxwood’s root system is shallow and its plants often grow slowly. So you won’t need to replant them for 2 or 3 years. After a few years, when you see roots appearing out of the soil or coming out of the drainage holes, it means it is time to change the pot again.

Common Problems and Pests for Boxwood

Boxwood is a hardier plant than many other plants and is easier to maintain. It is worth noting that there are many more resistant varieties of boxwood available, by choosing which you can be free from the worry of many major problems and pests. But even if such a problem arises, there is no need to panic. Every problem has a solution. Some common problems that may occur when growing and caring for boxwood are discussed below.

Common Pests of Boxwood

There is a need to be alert about the attack of blight on boxwood. Symptoms such as black or dark brown streaks on the stems or rapid loss of leaves indicate blight attack. Common boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) and English boxwood are generally more susceptible to these.

Some pests can greatly affect boxwood. Such as nematode, leafminer, boxwood mite, and boxwood psyllid. These can be avoided by using horticultural oil or pesticides and with proper care.

Common Problems of Boxwood

• The leaves of the plants are falling!
  • Boxwood decline occurs as a result of stress and diseases in boxwood plants. This deterioration, starting with discoloration of the leaves, eventually causes the plant to die. The main causes of stress may be new exposure to sunlight, severe drought, or lack of nutrients in the soil. Sometimes the aging of the boxwood or the attack of any insect can also cause the decline of the boxwood.
• Leaves are turning black/brown!
  • The main reason for boxwood leaves turning black/brown is cold damage. When boxwood plants are injured or damaged by cold, the result appears as bark bronze or brown leaves. If not treated, it can kill the plant. The problem of bronzing occurs due to exposure to too much sun and wind during winter. These can be avoided by taking proper measures.
• Other diseases include leaf spots and root rot. Good drainage and quality soil can help prevent these diseases from affecting your boxwood.

Boxwood Propagation (From seeds, Cuttings & Transplanting)

There are three main ways to propagate boxwood, from seed, from a cutting, and transplant. Any process does not make any difference in the growth of plants, so you can choose any of the three methods at your convenience. The easiest way is to transplant, then the cutting process, and the most difficult and time-demanding process is to propagate boxwood from seeds.

The transplant process is easy. But both the other processes are pleasurable in themselves, for which we gardeners are known. But what’s the harm in doing a simple procedure? Here we are talking about all three methods. It’s your choice who you choose…

Propagating Boxwood from Seed

Growing boxwood shrubs from seed is a good gardening process. In this process, whether you like it or not, you will start loving the plants growing. The steps of the process are as follows…

• Late spring is the best time to germinate boxwood. Keep in mind that if you have started the germination process this year, it will be ready for planting next year.
• Cold stratification is a process in which seeds are kept in a cool and moist environment. In this way, we imitate the natural process. As a result, the seeds start germinating. For this, a period of one to three months is required depending on the different varieties of seeds. We will have to do this process for our boxwood seeds also.
• First of all, take the soilless mixture which will be required to germinate the seeds.
• Now use sandpaper to scrape off the coating on the seeds.
• After this soak them in hot water overnight. In the morning, remove the seeds from the water and place them in a plastic bag filled with moist peat moss.
• Place the seeds in a refrigerator between 33°F to 41°F for about four to eight weeks, depending on the individual species. For more information see Cold Stratification Period of Seed Varieties.
• Make sure they get enough moisture. They will not germinate if completely dry or excessively wet.
• Once the seeds are completely cold stratified, plant them in a large seed-starting flat filled with a moist seed-starting mix. It is better if its depth is about one-sixteenth of an inch and the distance is about three inches.
• Cover the container with plastic wrap and spray with water 3-4 times a day to keep the soil moist.
• You may have to wait a long period before you see germination from boxwood seeds. Sometimes it takes six months for germination to occur. Therefore, be patient and continue fulfilling its needs.
• As soon as you see the simulation, remove the plastic wrap.
• You can also place them next to a sunny window for further growth, but sometimes they have trouble getting more consistent light (which they desperately need). For better results, you can keep them under grow light.
• Water them every day in such a way that only the soil remains moist, not soggy. In this way, they will be protected from getting spoiled or rotting.
• When the seedlings are about 4-5 inches tall, you can thin them and plant the strongest seedlings into individual pots that are about six inches wider than each plant’s root ball.

Propagating Boxwood from Cuttings

Using cuttings to propagate boxwood bush is much easier than propagating from seeds. Still, you will need to make some effort and be patient.

• The best time for this process is from late summer to early autumn. Wait until the spring growth has hardened off for this.
• Now choose a completely healthy and strong branch from your chosen variety of plant to obtain a cutting. There should be no symptoms of any kind of disease or problem.
• The length of the selected cutting should be 6-7 inches. Remove the leaves on the bottom half of this cutting. Later this lower part without leaves will become the root of the cutting. Dip half an inch of this lower portion in ‘powdered rooting hormone’.
• Choose a container with a minimum width and depth of 4-6 inches for planting. Then fill it with an equal quantity of mixed manure and sand and plant the cutting in this mixture at a depth of two inches. Use a stick to ensure that the plants do not fall or bend.
• Place the container with your cuttings in a warm area that gets plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil moist. Moisten the leaves with a spray bottle once or twice a day, so that they remain hydrated. After about four weeks, roots will emerge from the cutting.
• There can be many ways to check whether the roots have formed well or not after four weeks. Look at cutting for example. If it is not withered and is still alive, it means that roots have emerged. For more satisfaction, try pulling very carefully (with light hands). If it does not come out easily, it means the roots are strong and healthy.
• Once satisfied, let them grow for two more weeks. Then transplant it into a larger container. Then it can be transplanted outside in the next spring.

Propagation of boxwood from Transplanting

By far the easiest way to grow boxwood bushes in your garden is from seedlings or nursery transplants. This is also a popular method because you do not have to spend months trying to grow plants. Let us see what we have to do in this…

• For this, first of all, you will need a plant. Select the plant as per your need and choice and buy it from the nursery.
• Now choose the appropriate place for planting. Boxwood bushes can be grown in almost any light conditions, ranging from heavy shade to full sun. These plants demand more or less light depending on the different varieties. But usually, a location that receives light sunlight or light shade for a few hours in the morning or afternoon is ideal.
• Dig a hole at the chosen location. This hole should be the same depth as the root ball but approximately twice as deep.
• To remove the plant from its container, turn it upside down and shake it gently. Loosen the roots by removing a little of the soil from the container. Take care that the roots are not damaged. Keep the top of the root ball about two inches above ground level. Keep in mind that the plant should stand straight.
• After placing the root ball in the hole, start filling it with organic soil. After every few handfuls of organic soil, add some native soil back into the pit. After filling a little more than half, add slow-release fertilizer. Then fill the remaining space with organic soil and native soil in the same manner.
• Now water it thoroughly, and continue to meet its needs. Add two to three inches of organic mulch, which will help regulate the temperature of the roots and conserve water.

What are the Uses of Boxwood Shrubs?

One of the most popular shrubs in any type of garden or landscape design, boxwoods have a variety of uses. They are widely used in both formal and informal gardens. Their excellent design, interesting shape, and colorful leaves add life to any landscape. Then the lifelike shapes given by pruning create a unique sight. It is important to note that different types and varieties determine how they are best used. Read about our 19 types of boxwood for specific information. Still, here are some ideas for adding boxwood to your garden for you to brainstorm…

Garden bed edge

• • Some varieties of boxwood can be used as top choices for low-growing boxwood hedges. Select varieties such as Dwarf English can be planted along the edges to define beds.

Use to mark the entrance to the garden

• • Plant two large boxwoods on either side of the entrance, and prune them as needed. In this way, the entrance to the garden can be marked. It can also be used to mark any other door. It will provide a great view all year round and will make a spectacular sight in winter when draped in some twinkling lights.

Soften the corners

• •  Boxwood can be used to soften corners that get in the way of getting from one place to another. Boxwood cut tightly into a circle shape or left in a loose mound helps to soften the corners. They are also very helpful in rounding the corners of garden beds. For this, you can plant only one big boxwood, or arrange 3 to 5 small boxwoods near each other.

Mass plantation

• • Place multiple boxwoods together and cut them all into different shapes. Some are curved, some are circular and some are in other shapes. Keep small gaps between these so that someone can reach the plants for care and pruning.

Deer repellent

• • Precious gardens with flowers such as arborvitae, roses, and azaleas that are eaten by deer can be deterred by boxwood. Deer do not like the smell and taste of boxwood and avoid going inside. This way you create a boundary line that provides a pleasant view while being deer resistant.

Placement imitating the shape of stairs

• • Apart from growing it in the form of hedges or globes, it would be quite interesting to install boxwood in rectangular blocks on both sides of the stairs.

Other Boxwood Shrubs Uses

• • You might have used many shrubs in many forms, which are generally quite popular. Let us see how else boxwood shrubs can be used.
  • Boxwood Hedge, topiary, spherical shrub, mixed beds, border, container planting, vertical specimen or accent for large containers, formal garden, Mediterranean garden, specimen or accent in foundation planting, formal hedges, low hedge, cone-shaped tree, fence, Spiral Topiary. Also a popular choice for lawns or walkways. Different types and varieties of boxwood shrubs can be used in these ways.

History of Boxwood Shrubs

Boxwood has a long and rich history that spans centuries, its use dating back to ancient civilizations. Let’s take a look at some of the key points in the history of boxwood…

Are boxwoods poisonous?

Boxwood is a very common and popular evergreen shrub in many countries right across the Americas. But perhaps some gardeners may be unaware that boxwood plants are poisonous to both humans and animals. Whether you currently have boxwood in your garden or are planning to plant boxwood, you need to know that all parts of this plant are poisonous. Boxwood is poisonous to children and pets. There are some measures you should take to protect your children and beloved animals from the toxicity of boxwood. Such as using physical barriers such as decorative fences.

Effect of boxwood on children and ways of prevention

If boxwood is swallowed by a child, it will not be extremely poisonous. But can cause dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, convulsions and respiratory failure. The plant may cause skin irritation if it comes in direct contact.

As a precaution, if skin contact has occurred, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and monitor for irritation. If you suspect that a child has ingested boxwood, be sure to contact your poison control hotline and your doctor.

Is boxwood poisonous to dogs and cats?

However, dogs and cats rarely eat enough of the plant to cause any problems. But if boxwood is swallowed by a dog or cat, it is poisonous to them, which is due to the alkaloids present in the plant. Some symptoms of boxwood poisoning in both animals are vomiting and diarrhea. Contact your veterinarian for prevention.

Is boxwood poisonous to other animals?

Boxwood is poisonous to horses if ingested. Boxwood is also harmful to chickens, goats, and other animals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boxwood Shrubs

Q1. What are the disadvantages of boxwoods?

• • Boxwood shrubs are a very popular and beautiful bush. But unfortunately, it also has some disadvantages. Its biggest disadvantage is that it is poisonous to humans and animals, especially if swallowed. Every part of it is poisonous. Plants older than 16 months can cause life-threatening side effects. Sometimes this bush becomes a problem for some homeowners. In the absence of proper pruning, they grow very large, covering the facades of houses, and blocking the windows. And if left too long, it can become very difficult to shape or remove them. Depending on the variety, they may need some pruning from time to time. Otherwise, their growth will get out of control or appear disorganized.

Q2. Why do boxwoods smell?

• • Boxwood shrubs give off a peculiar smell. A type of oil is present in the leaves of boxwood. When it is heated by the sun’s rays, it starts to smell. Some people like this smell while others believe that this smell is more similar to cat urine.

Q3. Are boxwoods evergreen?

• • Yes! Boxwoods usually grow as a tree or shrub, which is why they are called evergreen. These plants have green leaves throughout the year. Although their color may change slightly, they do not die. Most varieties of boxwood are evergreen and continue to grow year after year. Even their dwarf species live for many years.

Q4. What do boxwoods attract?

• • Boxwood shrubs generally don’t attract anyone. But depending on the variety they may attract bees and, in certain circumstances, even hummingbirds and butterflies. Bees will be attracted to boxwoods that have larger, more vibrant flowers and greater amounts of nectar and pollen. While the flowers themselves can also attract hummingbirds and butterflies. All three may also be attracted to some boxwood as a means of shelter and protection from strong winds.

Q5. Do boxwoods grow fast?

• • It depends on the variety of boxwood. Many varieties grow rapidly. Whereas some varieties are slow-growing. By getting information about the growth rate of the variety of boxwood you have chosen or liked, you can know whether it is going to grow fast or not.

Q6. Where do boxwoods grow best?

• • Boxwood is suitable for different zones depending on the variety and where they grow well. To know more about this, read our recommended ’19 Types of Boxwood’ where we have given the zone of each type of boxwood.

Q7. Do boxwoods like sun or shade?

• • Boxwood requires full sun to partial shade conditions to perform best. Whereas in hot climates they benefit from afternoon shade. In most cases, the morning sun is best for boxwood. They can be grown in full shade as well as in full sun. But in some cases, their side effects can be seen. For example, plants grown in full shade will have smaller leaves and their growth will also be affected. On the other hand, plants grown in full sun may burn their leaves. Also, the color of the leaves may turn brown in winter, and there is also a risk of mite attacks. To understand this in detail, read ‘Planting Tips for Boxwood’ and Boxwood Shrub Care Tips’ above.

Q8. Can boxwoods survive winter?

• • Yes! Boxwoods are evergreen, so they can survive winter. The color of their leaves may change in winter and some effort is required to take care of them. Such as taking measures to protect against dry winds, using burlap to protect plants from burning, etc. Be sure to read ‘Overwintering Boxwood’ above to learn more.

Q9. Can boxwoods survive in pots? / Can boxwoods live indoors?

• • Yes! Many varieties of boxwood have been developed for planting in pots. Although not all varieties will perform well in pots, indoor varieties will do.