Scientific Name: Buxus sempervirens

Common Name: American Boxwood, Common Box

Garden Size: 5-15 feet tall by 5-15 feet wide if left in natural form

Growth Rate: Moderate-Fast; up to 3-5 inches per year under ideal conditions

USDA Zone: 5-8

Exposure: Full Sun to Full Shade

Water & Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and has low to average water requirements. Does not tolerate wet feet.

Habit (Form): Round to Broad Round

Foliage: Evergreen; Dark glossy green. Leaves may bronze in the winter.

Bloom Time: n/a (inconspicuous)

Bloom Color: n/a

Plant Origin: Ranges from western and southern Europe to western Asia and northern Africa

Wildlife Support: None; Deer Resistant

Fertilizing: Apply an acidic plant fertilizer in spring and in fall.

Pruning: As needed in late spring or early fall.

ASPCA Toxicity flags: Toxic to dogs, Toxic to cats, Toxic horses

Uses: Foundation Plantings, Hedges, Topiaries

Notes: Cleaning pruning tools before and after use on each plant is strongly recommended to reduce the spread of pathogens.