Buxus sempervirens

Boxwood

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Description

The boxwood is an evergreen shrub or small tree that has been valued in gardens for centuries as a classic formal hedge plant. With its dense, small-leaved foliage it is ideal for hedges, spheres, cones and artistic pruning shapes. It can be used as a structural element in raised beds or in pots on a terrace or balcony. Well-known cultivars such as *Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’* (dwarf boxwood for low borders) or the more robust ‘Rotundifolia’ provide different growth strengths depending on the space available.

Care instructions

Plant the boxwood in a semi-shaded to sunny location with well-drained, not too dry soil—waterlogging is not tolerated. Prune best on a cloudy day, ideally twice in summer, to keep it compact and dense. Water regularly in the first weeks after planting; once established it tolerates short dry periods. Watch for the boxwood leafminer (*Cydalima perspectalis*), which is widespread in the DACH region and can quickly defoliate shoots.