Buxus sempervirens
Plant What Where?
Commonly known as English Box, Buxus sempervirens is an evergreen shrub with vivid-green oval leaves that become a stunning dark green as they mature. Inconspicuous pale yellow flowers may appear in spring, followed by small, round seed capsules. The foliage maintains a fresh appearance year-round, creating a lush and refined look in the garden.
Cultural
English Box is a slow growing plant and, although frost tolerant, can turn bronze in winter.
Soil:
Prefers a fertile, well-drained soil.
Aspect:
Full sun to part shade, protect from harsh sun.
Maintenance:
Responds well to pruning. It is best to prune in late winter to early spring, avoid pruning during hot weather to prevent sunburn. Apply dolomite lime in autumn to maintain colour (can bronze over winter). Apply a general fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth. Susceptible to box blight, a fungal disease that causes leaf loss and dieback.
Water Requirements:
Moderately drought tolerant once established but will benefit from supplementary watering. Will not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Seasonal Interest:
Year round foliage interest.
Landscape Uses
Buxus sempervirens is a go-to choice for traditional low hedging or screening, widely found in formal gardens as a clipped specimen. Its graceful appearance in containers, whether shaped into balls or cones, adds a touch of elegance to any space.
Dimensions
Height to 2.0m
Width to 2.0m
Can be kept significantly smaller through pruning.
See TOPIARY for BALLS & SHAPES
Width to 2.0m
Can be kept significantly smaller through pruning.
See TOPIARY for BALLS & SHAPES