Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens)

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Boxwood Plant Care

Buxus sempervirens L.

Buxus sempervirens is a compact and dense evergreen shrub with small, glossy leaves. It is commonly known as Common Boxwood or European Boxwood. Ideal for hedging and topiary, this plant adds an elegant touch to any garden or landscape.

🌿Shrubs
Water

Every 7–14 days

Light

Full sun

Temp

30–90°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Is the Boxwood?

Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) belongs to the Buxaceae family within the Buxus genus. Boxwood is native to Western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia, from southern England south to northern Morocco, and east through the northern Mediterranean region to Turkey. Boxwood is also known as Common Boxwood, European Boxwood.

Boxwood displays a compact, dense growth habit, reaching up to 10 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Boxwood produces non-showy, creamy yellow.

Leaf size: approximately 1 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Boxwood?

Buxus sempervirens requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–14 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Boxwood Need?

Boxwood thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–1000 lux. Avoid placing Boxwood in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun

100–1000 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Boxwood Prefer?

Buxus sempervirens grows best at temperatures between 30°F and 90°F. Boxwood prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Temperature

30–90°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Boxwood?

Well-draining soil mix. Good drainage is essential for Boxwood to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Boxwood?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Boxwood?

Boxwood can be propagated through stem cuttings.

Fertilizing

Every 1 month

During the growing season

Is the Boxwood Toxic to Pets and Children?

Toxic to Pets & Children

Toxic

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Boxwood?

Boxwood is susceptible to boxwood leafminer, boxwood mite, boxwood psyllid. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Boxwood Need?

Boxwood grows outdoors in USDA Zone 5a – 8b. Native to Western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia, from southern England south to northern Morocco, and east through the northern Mediterranean region to Turkey, Boxwood is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Boxwood as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 5a – 8b

Keep exploring plants

Boxwood is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Buxus genus — compare its care with other Buxus species on PlantoScan.

Boxwood tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

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