The Different Types of Boxwood Plant

Boxwood plants are a popular choice for landscaping and gardening. With their lush green foliage and compact growth, boxwoods make for an excellent addition to any garden or landscape design. Boxwoods are known for their versatility and can be used in a variety of ways such as hedges, topiaries, and even container gardens. However, with so many different types of boxwood plants available, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. In this article, we will explore the different types of boxwood plants and their unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.

American Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens)

The American boxwood is a classic choice for many gardeners. It is a slow-growing variety that can reach up to 20 feet in height if left untrimmed. The American boxwood has glossy green foliage that is oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. This type of boxwood plant is known for its cold hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winter weather.

English Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’)

The English boxwood is a dwarf variety that typically grows to be around 3 feet tall and wide. It has small, bright green foliage that is oval-shaped and slightly pointed at the tip. The English boxwood is a slow-growing plant that is ideal for creating low hedges or borders.

Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla)

The Japanese boxwood is a popular choice for gardeners due to its versatility and adaptability to various growing conditions. It has small, dark green foliage that is oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The Japanese boxwood is a fast-growing variety that can reach up to 6 feet in height if left untrimmed.

Korean Boxwood (Buxus sinica var. insularis)

The Korean boxwood is a dwarf variety that grows to be around 2-4 feet tall and wide. It has dense, bright green foliage that is oval-shaped and slightly pointed at the tip. The Korean boxwood is a slow-growing plant that is ideal for creating low hedges or borders.

Variegated Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Variegata’)

The variegated boxwood is a unique variety that has green and white variegated foliage. It has oval-shaped leaves that are slightly pointed at the tip. The variegated boxwood is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 6 feet in height if left untrimmed.

Dwarf Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Compacta’)

The dwarf boxwood is a popular choice for gardeners who want a small plant with dense foliage. It has small, dark green foliage that is oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The dwarf boxwood is a slow-growing plant that typically reaches around 2-3 feet tall and wide.

Common Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens)

The common boxwood is a versatile variety that can be used in a variety of ways such as hedges, topiaries, and container gardens. It has glossy green foliage that is oval-shaped and slightly pointed at the tip. The common boxwood is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 20 feet in height if left untrimmed.

Green Mountain Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Green Mountain’)

The Green Mountain boxwood is a fast-growing variety that typically reaches around 5-6 feet tall and wide if left untrimmed. It has dark green foliage that is oval-shaped and slightly pointed at the tip. The Green Mountain boxwood is known for its cold hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winter weather.

Wintergreen Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Wintergreen’)

The Wintergreen boxwood is a slow-growing variety that typically reaches around 3-4 feet tall and wide if left untrimmed. It has small, dark green foliage that is oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The Wintergreen boxwood is known for its cold hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winter weather.

Differences between the different types of boxwoods

While all varieties of boxwoods share similar characteristics such as dense foliage, compact growth, and evergreen leaves, there are some key differences between them. For instance, some types of boxwoods are slow-growing while others are fast-growing; some are more cold-hardy than others; some have glossy green leaves while others have variegated leaves.

How to care for your boxwoods

Boxwoods are relatively easy to care for but require some maintenance to keep them healthy and looking their best. Here are some tips on how to care for your boxwoods:

• Watering: Boxwoods prefer well-draining soil but require regular watering during dry spells.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your boxwoods in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
• Pruning: Prune your boxwoods in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
• Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests such as spider mites or scale insects, which can damage your plants.
• Winter protection: Protect your boxwoods from harsh winter weather by wrapping them in burlap or covering them with mulch.

FAQs

Q: Are all varieties of boxwoods evergreen?

A: Yes, all varieties of boxwoods have evergreen leaves.

Q: Can I grow boxwoods in containers?

A: Yes, you can grow boxwoods in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and receive regular watering.

Q: How often should I prune my boxwoods?

A: You should prune your boxwoods once a year in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Q: How do I protect my boxwoods from pests?

A: Keep an eye out for pests such as spider mites or scale insects and use an insecticide if necessary.

Q: Can I grow different types of boxwoods together?

A: Yes, you can grow different types of boxwoods together as long as they have similar growing conditions and requirements.

In conclusion, there are many different types of boxwoods available to gardeners today, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you’re looking for a slow-growing dwarf plant or a fast-growing hedge variety, there’s sure to be a type of boxwood that fits your needs. With proper care and maintenance, these beautiful plants will provide year-round beauty and enjoyment in your garden or landscape design.