Boxwood, Wintergreen

Buxus microphylla var. koreana 'Wintergreen'

Height: 2-4ft
Spread: 3-5ft
Zone: 4-9
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom Time/Color: April; chartreuse
Uses: Massing, borders, hedge, topiary, formal
Maintenance: Medium
Other: Evergreen, deer/rabbit resistant, winter interest

Boxwood are one of the best evergreen shrubs for borders or formal hedges because of their ability to bounce back after heavy pruning. They are also slow growing which means less maintenance in between hedging. Boxwood are characterized in the landscape by their globular shape and small, elliptical glossy green foliage. Small, insignificant clusters of chartreuse flowers appear in early spring and fade amongst the foliage. Boxwood do best in well-drained loams in full sun to part shade and do best if soil moisture is consistent (a good layer of mulch will help). For optimum growth, partly shaded sites that are protected from strong winter winds are best. 'Wintergreen' has smaller leaves than other boxwood hybrids and has better cold hardiness making it a better choice for northern climates.