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Buxus /ˈbuk.sus/

Common name: Boxwood · Box

Buxus is a genus of slow-growing evergreen shrubs and small trees native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central America. Boxwoods are prized for their dense, small-leaved foliage that responds exceptionally well to pruning. They are the classic plant for hedges, edging, and topiary in formal gardens.

Fun facts

  • Boxwood has been used in formal European gardens since Roman times.
  • The dense, fine-grained wood is prized for engraving blocks and musical instruments.
  • Some boxwood shrubs in historic gardens are over 300 years old.
  • Box blight and box tree moth are serious modern threats to boxwood plantings.

Care summary

Sun Partial shade to full sun
Water Moderate; water deeply but infrequently
Soil Well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline
Hardiness Zones 5–9
Mature height 0.3–6 m (1–20 ft) depending on species
Pet safe Toxic if ingested

Common problems

    • Prune out and bag infected growth
    • Sanitize tools between every plant
    • Space plants for better air circulation
    • Inspect hedges regularly for webbing
    • Handpick green caterpillars on sight
    • Apply Bt spray during active feeding
    • Plant in free-draining amended soil
    • Avoid overwatering established hedges
    • Remove severely declining plants entirely