Using the Boxwood Guide will help you to look at a boxwood cultivar for careful consideration to be successful with a topiary garden.
Below are the milestones will look at for gardeners to grow boxwood foliages.
Growth Rate
This is an average growth rate and could vary depending on the soil, weather, location, and individual gardening practices of your particular site. This tool allows the gardener the ability to compare cultivars on a similar scale.
Sun Exposure
Each cultivar is listed with recommendations regarding sun exposure.
- Sun (Location is sunny from late morning to late afternoon)
- Part Sun (Location is shaded primarily from late morning to late afternoon)
- Shade (Location has no direct sun)
Attributes
This section describes the cultivar including pertinent information on foliage, growth, and shape.
Care
Here we make recommendations on how to care for each cultivar including pertinent information on pests or diseases. The pruning comments include which boxwood can be sheared or thinned and which should not, as well as which cultivars need annual pruning. Remember that care methods continually change with the site, weather, and individual gardening practices.
Uses
This section makes suggestions for possible uses of the boxwood cultivar in the landscape. The gardener must consider characteristics before selecting the appropriate boxwood for his or her needs. Remember, each location and use is unique. Consult other gardeners to see what cultivars are most successful in your area.
Uses listed include;
- A Specimen is a plant grown individually in a lawn or garden for ornamental effect rather than being used as part of a group or mass. Specimens serve as focal points in the landscape. An example of a specimen plant is flowering in a prominent spot on a lawn.
- Specimen Tall (mature size of 6’ tall or greater)
- Specimen Medium (mature size of 3-5’ tall and wide)
- Specimen Small (mature size of 1-3’ tall and wide)
- An Allee is a tall, straight line of shrubs or trees running along both sides of a walk or road. The plants are typical of the same species or cultivar. An allee (Often called an “avenue”) is used to announce the arrival of a garden or other architectural feature.
- A Hedge is a wall of plants. Hedges vary in height depending on the use. They can be planted to provided privacy, be decorative, or delineate a space. Take proper care to choose the correct plant based on the desired look of the hedge. Hedges can range from tightly clipped to an unclipped, more natural look. If a highly-manicured look is desired, be sure to select a plant that is responsive to pruning.
- Tall Hedge (mature size of 8-12’ tall)
- Medium Hedge (mature size of 4-8’ tall)
- Low Hedge (mature size of 4’ or less)
- Foundation Plants are typically used around the base of a home. Their functions include: transitioning from lawn to the home, softening hard lines around corners of the home, and beautifying an entrance.
- Edging (maximum mature size of 2’ high or wide) plants are used to create a low, straight, or ribbon-like border along a walkway, lawn, or garden. When creating an edge. Take care to select plants with smaller ultimate sizes. Edging in typically clipped very tightly, so select a plant that responds well to shearing. When shearing, the plant should be shaped slightly broader at the base than at the top to allow light to contact the plant selection focus on varieties that have smaller ultimate sizes similar to the desired final size. Note comments on thinning each cultivar.
- A Parterre is a formal garden with tightly clipped hedges. Plants are typically laid out in a very symmetrical pattern. The interior of the parterre can be planted with a variety of plants including evergreen shrubs, annuals, herbs, or perennials. A knot garden is similar to a parterre garden but has a distinctive woven pattern. Plant selection in a parterre or knot garden should focus on varieties that have smaller mature sizes as well as plants that respond well to shearing. Note comments on thinning each cultivar.
Type of Boxwood foliages around the USA by Cultivar Name
1) ‘Morris Midget’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla var. Japonica ‘Morris Midget’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Very slow, 0.5 to 1 inch per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Morris Midget’ is a small dwarf cultivar. It is very compact. In full winter sun, some bronzing will occur but new spring growth will cover the bronzing. The growth rate of this cultivar makes it an appealing plant where space is limited. It responds well to pruning or can be left unpruned. It is slightly smaller than ‘Morris Dwarf’. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Morris Midget’ requires little to no pruning when used as a specimen. It responds well to shearing when used in edging, parterres, and knot gardens. Thinning is recommended in late winter or early spring which will help reduce the chance of disease. Remove any sports with hand pruners by cutting sporting stems back into the interior of the plant.
‘Morris Midget’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. It has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This is the smallest boxwood we grow. Be patient with it as it is a very slow grower. We have seen it grown in full sun; however, for best results, plant this boxwood in areas with afternoon shade.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: ‘Morris Dwarf’
‘Grace Hedrick Phillips’
‘Green Pillow’
Size at 15 years: 1’ Tall x 1’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 1.25’ Tall x 2’ Wide
2) ‘Morris Dwarf’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla var. Japonica ‘Morris Dwarf’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Very slow, 0.5 to 1 inch per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Morris Dwarf’ is an excellent performing cultivar that is very compact. In winter sun, it will bronze; however, in spring new growth will quickly cover the bronzing. It is outstanding for edging formal beds or in parterre gardens and is very low maintenance. It responds well either pruned or left unpruned and is slightly larger than ‘Morris Midget’. Occasional sports occur on this plant and they should be removed. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Morris Dwarf’ requires little to no pruning when used as a specimen. It responds well to shearing when used in edging, parterres, and knot gardens. Thinning is recommended in late winter or early spring which will help reduce the chance of disease. Remove undesirable sports with hand pruners by cutting sporting stems back into the interior of the plant.
‘Morris Dwarf’ is resistant to boxwood leaf miners. It has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comment: A very good dwarf boxwood. We have seen it in numerous full sun landscapes but, for optimal beauty, plant it so it receives some afternoon shade. Remember it is a dwarf boxwood and you must be patient with its growth.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: ‘Morris Midget’
‘Grace Hendrick Phillips’
‘Green Pillow’
Size at 15 years: 1’ Tall x 1.25’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 1.5’ Tall x 2.25’ Wide
3) ‘Grace Hendrick Phillips’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla ‘Grace Hendrick Phillips’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow, 0.75 to 1.5 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Grace Hendrick Phillips’ mounds and spreads very much like some of the dwarf Japanese hollies. The growth rate is slow enough that it does not outgrow the landscape but fast enough to be used as a primary plant in many landscapes. Be patient in the spring, as new growth appears slightly later than most boxwood. New foliage is light green and matures to a darker green. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Grace H. Phillips’ requires little to no pruning, except when used in edging, parterre, or knot garden. If pruning is necessary, use hand pruners or shears. Occasional sports occur on this plant and they should be removed. Some thinning in late winter or early spring will help reduce disease incidence.
‘Grace H. Phillips’ is resistant to boxwood leafminer. It has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This boxwood is very highly rated in the National Boxwood Trials. Its spreading habit is very appealing. We have even seen mature plants cascading in a rock garden.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: ‘Morris Dwarf
‘Green Pillow’
Size at 15 years: 1’ Tall x 2’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 1.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
4) ‘Green Pillow’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla ‘Green Pillow’
Zone: 5-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow, 0.75 to 1 inch per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Pillow’ is known for its naturally dense, compact, oval habit. Its foliage is lime-green and its shape is larger but very much resembles ‘Morris Dwarf’ and ‘Morris Midget’. In winter sun this cultivar will bronze; however bronzing of foliage burn will quickly disappear when new growth appears in spring. It is very common to sports on this plant and they should be removed. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Green Pillow’ needs very little to no pruning in most applications. It will need pruning if it is used as an edge, parterre, or knot garden. Use hand pruners or shears. Remove sports with hand pruners by cutting sporting stems back into the interior of the plant. Thinning in late winter or early spring will help reduce the possibility of disease.
‘Green Pillow’ is resistant to boxwood leafminer and when properly planted and cared for, this plant has few disease or pest issues.
Comments: Plant this cultivar in shade and watch it thrive. It looks like a pincushion.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: ‘Morris Midget’
‘Morris Dwarf’
‘Grace Hendrick Phillips’
Size at 15 years: 1.25’ tall x 1.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2’ Tall x 3’ Wide
5) ‘Insularis Nana’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sinica var. insularis ‘Nana’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: Insularis ‘Nana’ is a low spreading cultivar with lime green new growth in the spring. New growth will slowly fade to light green. Although considered a smaller cultivar, it is relatively fast-growing. It is very similar to the cultivars ‘Franklin’s Gem’ and ‘Tide Hill’. Deer resistant.
Care: Prune Insularis ‘Nana’ lightly in late winter or early spring to make a stronger and denser plant. This cultivar can be pruned with shears or hand pruners. Thinning is not typically necessary but, if this cultivar is sheared heavily, some thinning in late winter to early spring will allow air and sunlight to penetrate the plant.
Insularis ‘Nana’ is resistant to boxwood leaf miners. It has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: It is becoming increasingly popular due to its resistance to disease and pests. An annual light pruning will help develop rigidity in this boxwood and lessen the chance of the plant opening up in the center as it matures. It is very popular in the Northeast.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: ‘Franklin’s Gem
‘Vardar Valley’
“Tide Hill’
Size at 15 years: 1.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2’ Tall x 4’ Wide
6) ‘Franklin’s Gem’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla sinica ‘Franklin’s Gem’
Zone: 4-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Franklin’s Gem’ is a low spreading cultivar with lime green new growth in the spring. New growth will slowly transition to an olive-green. It is very similar to the cultivars Insularis ‘Nana’ and ‘Tide Hill’. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Franklin’s Gem’ should be pruned lightly in late winter to early spring to make a stronger and denser plant. This cultivar can be pruned with shears or hand pruners. Thinning is not typically necessary but, if this cultivar is sheared heavily, some thinning in early spring would be beneficial.
‘Franklin’s Gem’ is resistant to boxwood leafminer and had few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for property.
Comments: A light annual pruning will lessen the tendency of the plant to open up in the center over time. Popular, especially in the Northeast.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre, or knot garden.
Substitutes: insularis ‘Nana’
‘Justin Brouwers’
‘Vardar Valley”
Size at 15 years: 1.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2’ Tall x 4’ Wide
7) ‘Justin Brouwers’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sinica var.insularis ‘Justin Brouwers’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Justin Brouwers’ is a compact, mounding to rounded cultivar. It is extremely versatile. It can be sued in applications where it is pruned or in gardens with minimal to no pruning. Foliage is a spectacular deep-green color even in winter. It holds its foliage deep into the interior of the plant. It is sensitive to poorly drained soils. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Justin Brouwers”, as a juvenile plant and up to about 10-12 inches, has a slightly upright habit. Annual pruning to round the plant should occur in late winter or early spring. Thereafter it can be left unpruned and will develop into a spectacular plant that is somewhat rounded. An occasional light pruning in late winter or early spring may be preferred.
When used as edging, parterres, or knot gardens, pruning and shearing will be necessary. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning in late winter or early spring is recommended to lessen disease occurrence.
‘Justin Brouwers” is susceptible to boxwood leafminer. Special care should be taken when planting to ensure the plant is properly elevated and all drainage issues are addressed. Otherwise, it has a few other pests or disease issues.
Comments: It is one of the best small to medium-sized boxwood on the market. If planted correctly this plant is stunning; however, we have seen numerous cases where it is planted in areas of poor drainage and the plant struggles. Use as a replacement or substitute for English boxwood. There is some discussion that ‘Justin Brouwers’ may be a sempervirens cultivar but testing has yet to prove this.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre, or knot garden, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Jensen’, ‘Gelncoe’ (Chicagoland Green®)
‘Green Mound’, ‘Suffruticosa’ (English), ‘Green Velvet’
‘Green Gem’
Size at 15 years: 2’ Tall x 2.25’ Wide
Size at 25 Years: 3’ Tall x 3.5 Wide
8) ‘Jensen’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Jensen’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 12 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Jensen’ is a rounded cultivar that closely resembles Buxus sempervirens ‘SUffruticosa’ (English). It has bluish-green new growth in the spring that turns to a deep green by mid to late summer. Foliage is slightly larger than English. It thrives in dappled shade and soils with good drainage. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Jensen’ flourishes when left unpruned. It should never be sheared. Shearing will increase canopy density and increase the chance of disease problems. Avoid uses where heavy pruning is necessary. Thinning is recommended either in winter will help sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy of the plant and reduce disease incidence. Use hand pruners.
‘Jensen’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. To lessen disease issues, proper planting techniques must be used as well as the proper site is chosen. Monitor soil pH and maintain in 6.5-7.2 range.
Comments: ‘Jensen’ is showing promise to be more resistant to some of the diseases that are affecting English boxwood. It shows promise if planted on a new site where there have not been diseases boxwood, there is good drainage, and there is full shade or afternoon shade. However, when planted in full sun, in an area with poor drainage, or as a replacement of diseased boxwood, it will struggle.
Uses: Medium specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations.
Substitutes: ‘Justin Brouwers’
‘Suffruiticosa’ (English)
‘Green Velvet’
‘Glencoe’ (Chicagoland Green®)
‘Green Mound’
‘Green Beauty’
‘Green Gem’
Size at 15 years: 2.25’ Tall x 2’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 3.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
9) ‘Suffruticosa’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ (English)
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 2 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part or shade.
Attributes: ‘Suffruticosa’ (English) is known for its soft, billowy outline and lush foliage. English boxwood is often referred to as “dwarf boxwood” due to its slow growth rate. However, in an ideal environment, the plant will continue to grow for 75 to 150 years and develop into a very large shrub. As a result, take care to avoid using this plant where it will ultimately be too large for the desired use. English boxwood has a distinct odor. Avoid poorly drained soils. Deer resistant.
Care: English boxwood thrives when left unpruned. Never shear. Shearing will increase the foliage density and thus the chance of disease problems. Avoid using this boxwood where heavy pruning is necessary. English thrives best when planted in shade to partial shade and left unpruned. Thinning is recommended either in winter for holiday decorations or in late winter to early spring before new growth appears. This will help sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy of the plant and reduce disease incidence. Use hand pruners.
English boxwood shows good resistance to boxwood leafminer. Take special attention when planting and caring for English boxwood as it is prone to disease issues. Do not replant it in areas where other English boxwoods have died due to disease problems. Avoid areas with poor drainage and areas with direct afternoon sun. Monitor soil pH and maintain in 6.5-7.2 range.
Comments: English boxwood in its optimal environment is untouched in its beauty. It has probably been the most extensively planted boxwood in the United States over the past 100 years. However, many people have planted it on undesirable sites and the plant has not done well. If planting English boxwood, take special considerations. If conditions are questionable, consider a different cultivar.
Uses: Medium specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations
Substitutes: ‘Jensen’, ‘Glencoe’ (Chicagoland Green®)
‘Justin Brouwer, ‘Green Beauty’
‘Green velvet’, ‘Green Mound’, ‘Green Gem’
Size at 15 years: 2.25’ Tall x 2’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 3.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
10) ‘Elegantissima’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Elegantissima’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Part sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Elegantissima’ will add color to the landscape with its green leaves accented with creamy-white edges. Its creamy variegation differs from many of the white margined cultivars. Use the foliage in holiday decorations. Avoid poorly drained soils. Deer resistant.
Care: With minimal to no pruning ‘Elegantissima’ will develop into a slightly pyramidal plant. If a more rounded shape is desired, prune lightly in late winter or early spring. Thinning is recommended either in winter for holiday decorations or in late winter to early spring before new growth appears. This will help sunlight and air penetrate the canopy of the plant which reduces disease incidence.
‘Elegantissima’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. If planted properly, it has few other pests or disease issues. Avoid areas with harsh winter winds.
Comments: The color of the foliage on this cultivar makes it a winner. We have seen it planted in full sun but it prefers shade especially in the afternoon. It can brighten shaded areas. It is a sempervirens cultivar, so at the time of planting, it is important to properly elevate the plant and address all drainage issues.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Golden Dream’
Size at 15 years: 2.5’ Tall x 2’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 4’ Tall x 3’ WIde
11) ‘Golden Dream’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla ‘Golden Dream’ PP16052
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Golden Dream’ has a beautiful rounded and compact habit. The foliage is edged with heavy golden variegation. From a distance, the variegation makes the entire plant nearly a lime-green color. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Golden Dream’ can be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired habit. Use hand pruners and shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant, ‘Golden Dream’ is resistant to boxwood leafminer and has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This promising boxwood is relatively new to us and the market. Remember it offers more of a lime coloring than the traditional white or creamy variegation. We like the fact that it is a microphylla and hope that it will be more tolerant of sunny locations as well as marginal soil conditions. In late fall and winter, we have seen this cultivar take on a natural orange tint as orange-red spots appear in the variegation. It seems to be a characteristic of the plant, so don’t be alarmed.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations.
Substitutes: ‘Elegantissima’
Size at 15 years: 2.5’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 3.5’ Tall x 3.5’ Wide
12) ‘Green Velvet’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus x ‘Green Velvet’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Velvet’ has a somewhat rounded habit that is slightly wider than tall. The foliage on this cultivar is a beautiful medium to light-green in spring and slowly transitions to dark green. It is a cold-hardy hybrid boxwood that was developed in Canada. It is a selected seeding cross between Buxus sempervirens and Buxus sinica var. insularis and part of the “Green Series” of boxwood which include “Green Mountain’, ‘Green Mound’, ‘Green Gem’, and ‘Green Velvet’, It is very similar to the cultivar ‘Glencoe’ (Chicagoland Green*), ‘Green Velvet’ will bronze slightly in winter especially when exposed to direct sunlight. Typically in spring, as temperatures rise, bronzed foliage will brighten and new growth will quickly transform the plant to green. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Green Velvet’ should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired habit. It may be sheared into edging and other formal applications. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, it will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant which reduces the chance of disease.
‘Green Velvet’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This is a good boxwood that has been used in many landscapes in the past 20-30 years. We have heard some reports of root issues possibly related to poor drainage, which may be explained by its sempervirens percentage. In many landscapes, it will reach its 15-year size at a moderate speed then slow its growth.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre or knot garden, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Green Mound’
‘Green Gem’
Size at 15 years: 2’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2.75’ Tall x 3.5’ Wide
13) ‘Glencoe’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus x ‘Glencoe’
Zone: 4-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: Chicagoland Green® will grow slightly wider than tall. It is an excellent cold-hardly cultivar that is extremely uniform in its growth. It is very similar to ‘Green Velvet’. Chicagoland Green® will bronze slightly in winter especially when planted in full sun. Bronzed foliage will typically disappear quickly in spring as temperatures rise, Bronzed foliage will brighten and new growth will begin to appear. Deer resistant.
Care: Prune Chicagoland Green® lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired habit. It may be sheared into edging and other formal applications. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant which reduces the chance of disease.
Comments: It is a selected hybrid from the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Illinois. It is very difficult to distinguish it from ‘Green Velvet’, Its hardiness and durability make it a good plant.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre or knot garden, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Green Velvet’
‘Green Mound’
14) ‘Green Gem’ Boxwood Topiary
Size at 15 years: 2’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2.75’ Tall x 3.5’ Wide
Cultivar: Buxus x ‘Green Gem’
Zone: 4-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Gem’ is a cold-hardy hybrid boxwood with a spherical habit. It is often referred to as being in the “Green Series” of boxwood (see ‘Green Velvet’ for more information). It is very similar to ‘Green Mound’ but slightly smaller. To minimize bronzing, avoid planting in areas of direct winter sun. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Green Gem’ should be lightly pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant which reduces the chance of disease.
‘Green Gem’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This boxwood has been planted extensively over the past 20-30 years. Its hardiness and non-domineering size have been popular with many landscapers.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre or knot garden, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Justin Brouwers’
‘Green Velvet’
‘Green Mound’
Size at 15 years: 2’ Tall x 2’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2.75’ Tall x 2.75’ Wide
15) ‘Green Mound’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivate: Buxus x ‘Green Mound’
Zone: 4-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Mound’ is a cold-hardy hybrid boxwood with spherical habit. It is often referred to as being in the “Green Series” of boxwood (see ‘Green Velvet’ for more information). It is similar to ‘Green Velvet’ but more rounded in its natural shape. ‘Green’ Mound’ will bronze slightly in winter especially when exposed to direct sunlight. The bronzed leaves will typically brighten as spring temperatures rise and then be covered as new foliage appears. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Green Mound’ should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired habit. It may be sheared into edging and other formal applications. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant which reduces the chance of disease.
‘Green Mound’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This is another of the hardy Sheridan Nurseries boxwood from Canada. It is very popular. In many landscapes, it will reach its 15-year size at a moderate speed then slow its growth.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre or knot garden, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Justin Brouwers’
‘Green Velvet’
16) ‘Glencoe’ Boxwood Topiary
Size at 15 years: 2.25’ Tall x 2.25’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 3’ Tall x 3’ Wide
‘Vardar Valley’
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Vardar Valley’
Zone: 5-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Slow to medium, 1 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Vardar Valley’ is very appealing due to its distinctive powdery blue new foliage in the spring combined with excellent winter hardiness. It matures into a broad, mounding plant. Spring blue foliage will fade to deep green in summer. ‘Vardar Valley’ holds the deep green color through the winter. Avoid planting in areas where drainage is poor. Deer resistant.
Care: Lightly prune ‘Vardar Valley’ as needed in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape and density. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant.
‘Vardar Valley’ is resistant to boxwood leafminer. When planted properly in well-drained soils plant has few pest and disease problems.
Comments: ‘Vardar Valley’ is one of the top plants in its juvenile stages (up to about 18’’ wide) as its habit is open and its branches are prominent. Do not plant in areas where drainage is questionable.
Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations.
Substitutes: ‘Green Velvet’
‘Glencoe’ (Chicagoland Green*)
‘Franklin’s Gem’
Size at 15 years: 1.5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 2.5’ Tall x 5’ Wide
17) ‘Green Beauty’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla var. japonica ‘Green Beauty’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 4 inches per year
Sun Exposure: sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Beauty’ is an excellent medium-sized cultivar that has deep green glossy foliage with little winter bronzing. It has a naturally rounded habit that will typically be slightly wider than tall. Its branching structure makes for a very strong plant that can withstand breakage from most moderate to heavy snowfalls. It is very durable and recovers quickly if a limb is broken or if radical pruning is necessary. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Green Beauty’ should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain a more uniform shape. It will typically start the second flush of new growth in the late summer to early fall that may be burned and discolored by fall frost before it hardens off. These branches or “horns” can be pruned off any time after the first hard freeze of the fall, or left on the plant until early spring pruning. If the plant outgrows its desired size, it tolerates radical pruning. Prune with hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant which reduces the chance of disease.
‘Green Beauty’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: We like this boxwood. Its durability and disease resistance is very good. We have planted it in locations where diseased English boxwood has died and it is thriving. Pruning as a young plant is a must to develop a good shape.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, foundation plant, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Green Velvet’
‘Green Mound’
‘Glencoe’ (Chicagoland Green*)
‘Jim Stauffer’
Size at 15 years: 3’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 4.5’ Tall x 5’ Wide
18) ‘Wintergreen’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla va.japonic ‘Wintergreen’
Zone: 5-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Fast, 4 to 6 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Wintergreen’ is a vigorous, winter-hardy cultivar that is ideal when a medium to large foundation plant is desired. It is great for use in medium-sized hedges and is very tolerant of pruning or shearing. It has a tendency to bronze when exposed to direct winter sun but the bronzing will quickly disappear as temperatures rise in spring and as new growth emerges. It is very similar to ‘Winter Gem’. Deer-resistant.
Care: ‘Wintergreen’ should be pruned each late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape. Use hand pruners or shears. Additional pruning may be necessary for early to mid-summer, depending on the desired look and vigor of the plant. ‘Wintergreen’ tolerates more radical pruning if the plant has outgrown its desired size. Thinning is not necessary on this cultivar.
‘Wintergreen’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. When properly planted and cared for, it has new other disease or pest issues.
Comments: It is a great choice when you want to fill a space quickly. If left unpruned, a vigorous plant can become wiry but the plant will respond very well to hedge shears. There are many cultivars in the nursery industry with the name ‘Wintergreen’. Some are very similar to this one and others are very different. When matching plants, be sure to check plant attributes and projected size before purchasing.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, low hedge, foundation plant.
Substitutes: ‘Winter Gem’
‘Jim Stauffer’
‘Green Beauty’
Size at 15 years: 4’ Tall x 4’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 5.5’ Tall x 5.5’ Wide
19) ‘Winter Gem’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla var.japonica ‘Winter Gem’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Fast, 4 to 6 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Winter Gem’ is a round-shaped cultivar that is relatively vigorous. It tolerates a wide range of sizes and uses. New foliage emerges a lime-green color and transitions to a deep, glossy green. It has a tendency to bronze when exposed to direct winter sun but the bronzing will quickly disappear in spring as temperatures rise and as new growth emerges. ‘Winter Gem’ is very similar to the cultivars ‘Wintergreen’ or Faulkner’. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Winter Gem’ should be pruned each year in late winter to early spring to maintain the desired shape. Use hand pruners or shears. Additional lighter pruning’s may be necessary for early to mid-summer, depending on the desired look and vigor of the plant. ‘Winter Gem’ tolerates more radical pruning if the plant has outgrown its desired size. Thinning is not necessary on this cultivar.
‘Winter Gem’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer and has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: Great plant to fill space quickly. It is very similar to ‘Wintergreen’. It has a very vigorous growth habit that can get rather wiry but it can be controlled with a good pair of hedge shears.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, low hedge, foundation plant.
Substitutes: ‘Wintergreen’
‘Green Beauty’
‘Jim Stauffer’
Size at 15 years: 4’ Tall x 4’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 5.5’ Tall x 5.5’ Wide
20) ‘Green Mountain’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus x ‘Green Mountain’
Zone: 4-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium to fast, 2 to 4 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Green Mountain’ is a cold-hardy, rounded, conical-shaped hybrid boxwood. It is often referred to as being in the “Green Series” of boxwood (see ‘Green Velvet’ for more information). ‘Green Mountain’ will bronze slightly in winter especially when exposed to direct sunlight but bronzing will quickly fade as new spring foliage begins to emerge. Deer resistant.
Care: Prune ‘Green Mountain’ lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain desired habits. Use hand pruners or shears. ‘Green Mountain’ is often sheared in a tight pyramid or conical shape to distinguish it from other plants in the “Green Series”; however when left unpruned, it will develop a more rounded conical habit. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant.
‘Green Mountain’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: Some gardeners believe annual light pruning is necessary on this cultivar to improve its rigidity as an upright plant or the plant may open up with snow. It grows with relative vigor until it is about 15 years old then slows down.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, low hedge, foundation plant, containers.
Substitutes: ‘John Baldwin’
‘Dee Runk’
‘Fastigiata’
Size at 15 years: 3.5’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 5’ Tall x 3’ Wide
21) ‘John Baldwin’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla ‘John Baldwin’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium, 2 to 3 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘John Baldwin’ is grown for its true, broad, conical habit. Foliage is fine-textured and leaves are relatively small compared to many boxwood. New foliage has a blue tint which will slowly fade to a blue-green. Use this cultivar as an alternative to ‘Green Mountain’ when a true conical shape with minimal pruning is desired. Also, use it as an excellent substitute for conical shape with minimal pruning is desired. Also, use it as an excellent substitute for conical Japanese hollies in sun or shade. Deer resistant.
Care: Up to 2 ft or so in height, prune ‘John Baldwin’ in late winter to early spring to develop a conical habit. Once the plant gets 2-3 feet tall, it requires less pruning, typically having to remove only side shoots or “horns” each late winter or early spring. Use hand pruners or shears although shears are seldom needed as the plant matures. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant.
‘John Baldwin’ is susceptible to boxwood leafminer but has few other pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments: This may be the best pyramidal growing boxwood that we have seen. Being a microphylla, it is proving to be more durable with regard to disease and its adaptation to a wider range of soil conditions. We have seen it perform well in marginally we locations; however, we don’t recommend planting any boxwood in areas where drainage is poor.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, foundation plant, container.
Substitutes: ‘Dee Runk’
‘Fastigiata’
Green Mountain’
Size at 15 years: 3.5’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 6’ Tall x 3.5’ Wide
22) ‘Jim Stauffer’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus microphylla var. japonica ‘Jim Stauffer’
Zone:5-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium to fast, 2.5 to 5 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Jim Stauffer’ is an excellent foundation plant that is slightly more vigorous than some cultivars, yet can be maintained in a formal shape. It grows in a comparable height-to-width ratio. It also responds very well to pruning or shearing. It has proven to be more cold-hardy than other Buxus microphyll. ‘Jim Stauffer’ can be used as a great substitute for Buxus sempervirens (American) when a plant of a similar shape is desired but with a smaller ultimate size. Deer resistant.
Care: Lightly pruning ‘Jim Stauffer’ in late winter or early spring is necessary to maintain a more uniform shape. It will occasionally start a second flush of new growth in the late summer to early fall that may freeze before it hardens off. These branches or “horns” can be pruned off after the first hard freeze of the fall or in early spring. ‘Jim Stauffer’ tolerates more radical pruning if the plant has outgrown its desired size. Prune with hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant.
‘Jim Stauffer’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer and has minimal other disease and pest issues when planted and cared for properly.
Comments; We like this boxwood. It has foliage that is very similar to ‘Green Beauty’ but its habit is more upright. Its hardiness also makes it the choice of many gardeners in colder climates.
Uses: Medium specimen, medium hedge, foundation plant, containers.
Substitues: sempervirens (American)
‘Rotundifloia’
‘Green Beauty’
‘Wintergreen’
‘Winter Gem’
Size at 15 years: 3.25’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 5’ Tall x 5’ Wide
23) ‘Rotundifolia’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Rotundifolia’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium to fast, 3 to 5 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Rotundifolia’ is an upright rounded boxwood with unique foliage. Mature leaves are very shiny dark green even through the winter. Leaves are nearly rounded and some can be as large as nickel or quarter. Deer resistant.
Care: Prune ‘Rotundifolia’ lightly in late winter to early spring as needed to maintain the desired habit. Use hand pruners or shears. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant and reduce the chance of disease.
‘Rotundifolia’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. When planted properly in well-drained soils, this plant has few other pests and disease problems.
Comments: The foliage on this boxwood is what makes it unique. From a distance, the habit looks very similar to sempervirens but when you get close to it the large, shiny, rounded foliage is strikingly different.
Uses: Tall specimen, allee, a tall hedge, medium hedge, foundation plant.
Substitutes: sempervirens (American)
‘Jim Stauffer’
Size at 15 years: 4.5’ Tall x 4’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 6’ Tall x 5.5’ Wide
24) ‘Sempervirens’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens (American)
Zone: 5-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Medium to fast, 3 to 5 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Medium to fast, 3 to 5 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: American boxwood is a classic, large-growing upright rounded boxwood. In an ideal environment, the plant will continue to grow for 75 to 150 years and develop into a massive shrub (sometimes as large as 15 ft tall and wide or more). It has excellent dark green winter foliage and cuttings are a favorite for holiday decorations. Be especially careful to plant this cultivar in areas with good drainage. Deer resistant.
Care: Prune American boxwood lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired habit. It tolerates more radical pruning if the plant has outgrown its desired size use hand pruners, shears, and loppers. Thin in winter for holiday decorations or early spring before new growth appears to increase airflow and light penetration into the interior of the plant thus reducing the incidence of disease.
American boxwood is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer. When planted properly in well-drained soils, this plant has few other pests or disease problems.
Comments: This boxwood has been the backbone of many Colonial American landscapes for many years. Take care to avoid using this plant where it will ultimately be too large for the landscape.
Uses: Tall specimen, allee, a tall hedge, medium hedge, foundation plant, foliage for holiday decorations.
Substitutes: ‘Rotundifolia’
‘Jim Stauffer’
Size at 15 years: 5’ Tall x 4’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 7’ Tall x 6’ Wide
25) ‘Dee Runk’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Dee Runk’
Zone: 6-8s USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Fast to medium, 3 to 6 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Dee Runk’ is an excellent upright cultivar with a naturally vertical habit. With some pruning, it can be a tight conical shape. It will develop a columnar habit with little to no pruning. Use as an excellent choice for narrow hedges or accenting a door or corner. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Dee Runk’ responds very well to pruning. Use hand pruners or shears. Lightly prune, as needed, in late winter or early spring to maintain density and desired form. If winter snow or ice has damaged any limbs or pulled them out from the plant, remove them. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant. If a tight conical form is desired, training will be required. Depending on growth and prior maintenance, a light annual pruning followed by a heavier pruning every 5 years or so is necessary to maintain its form and minimize splaying due to snow and ice or even heavy wet foliage in a syringe.
Little or no pruning will yield a more columnar habit. Understand that this habit will allow branches to potentially splay out from the plant especially in frozen winter precipitation or heavy new growth in late spring.
‘Dee Runk’ is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer and when planted properly, it has few other pests or disease issues.
Comments: We believe this plant is best when pruned into a tight conical form. Its versatility of growing in full sun or full shade makes it a great option in many different landscapes. Compared to ‘Fastigiata’, it is slightly narrower.
Uses: Tall specimen, allee, a tall hedge, medium hedge, foundation plant, holiday foliage, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Fastigiata’
‘John Baldwin’
Size at 15 years: 8’ Tall x 2.5’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 12’ Tall x 3’ Wide
26) ‘Fastigiata’ Boxwood Topiary
Cultivar: Buxus sempervirens ‘Fastigiata’
Zone: 6-8 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Guide
Growth Rate: Fast to medium, 3 to 6 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun or shade.
Attributes: ‘Fastigiata’ is an outstanding upright cultivar. The foliage is a rich green with a hint of blue. Its true habit is upright. Depending on the gardener’s preferences, this boxwood can either be trained into a conical shape or, with minimal pruning, it can be a broadly columnar shape. It is an excellent choice for narrow hedges or accenting a door or corner. Deer resistant.
Care: ‘Fastigiata’ responds well to pruning. Use hand pruners or shears. Lightly prune in late winter or early spring to maintain density and desired form. If winter snow or ice has damaged any limbs or pulled them out from the plant, remove them. Thinning is not necessary but, as with any boxwood, will help increase airflow and sunlight penetration into the interior of the plant.
If a tight conical form is desired, training will be required. Depending on growth and prior maintenance, a light annual pruning followed by a heavier pruning every 4 years or so is necessary to maintain form and minimize splaying due to snow and ice or even heavy wet foliage in spring.
Little or no pruning will yield a more broad columnar habit. Understand that this habit will lend itself to branches splaying out from the plant especially in frozen winter precipitation or heavy new growth in late spring.
It is moderately resistant to boxwood leafminer and it has few other pests or disease issues.
Comments: This is a very good upright boxwood. Our preference is to prune it to a tight cone. It can take full sun or full shade. Its foliage is slightly bluer and habits slightly broader than ‘Dee Runk’.
Uses: tall specimen, allee, a tall hedge, medium hedge, foundation plant, holiday foliage, containers.
Substitutes: ‘Dee Runk’
‘John Baldwin’
Size at 15 years: 8’ Tall x 3’ Wide
Size at 25 years: 12’ Tall x 4’ Wide