Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens
Common Boxwood
About this plant
Boxwood is a dense, evergreen shrub with small, glossy green leaves. It is often used for hedges, borders, and topiary because it can be shaped easily. It grows slowly and stays green year-round, making it popular in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Buxus
- Family
- Buxaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Buxales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, especially in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 5-9
- Soil pH
- 6.5-7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy or clay soils with good drainage
Watering. Water regularly during dry periods, especially for young plants. Avoid waterlogging the soil to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed boxwood in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Boxwood is a hardy evergreen shrub that tolerates both sun and shade. It prefers well-drained soil and regular watering but can suffer if overwatered. Pruning is needed to maintain shape, and it generally requires moderate care.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Layering
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Dense evergreen foliage, small greenish-yellow flowers in spring, and ability to be shaped into hedges or topiary.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Boxwood leaves and berries are mildly toxic if ingested, causing stomach upset. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact, Pollen
- Pollen level
- Low
Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) pollen is not a common allergen, but some people may experience mild skin irritation from contact with its leaves or sap. To reduce risk, wear gloves when pruning or handling the plant.
Common problems
Boxwood can suffer from leaf spots, root rot if overwatered, and boxwood blight in some areas. Pests like boxwood leafminer and mites may also cause damage.
Uses
Commonly used as ornamental hedges, borders, and topiary in gardens and landscapes.
Notes
Prune boxwood in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall. Repotting is rarely needed for outdoor plants but may be necessary for container-grown specimens.