American Boxwood Shrub

The Boxwood That Looks Great Anywhere • Most Popular for Hedges • Drought Tolerant, Deer Resistant • Stays in any Shape You Prune it • Resists Boxwood-Blight These Tough, Large-growing Shrubs Make a Great Tall Hedge Drought tolerant, deer resistant and evergreen - no wonder American Boxwood has been a top hedging choice for centuries! Slowly growing to a dense bush 10-12 feet tall, it can easily be pruned to any height or shape you desire, which also makes it an excellent choice for a topiary, if you are so inclined. Though a hungry deer will eat most anything, Boxwood is on the last page of their menu, so damage is unlikely. Long-Lived and Undemanding, They Have Stood the Test of Time! Boxwood was included in the gardens of Thomas Jefferson, and was popular in Europe even earlier. It was planted on many historic estates, and no Victorian garden was complete without a planting of boxwood! Its dense foliage, slow growth and propensity to live 75 to 100 years or more have kept it popular over the years, as well as its versatility in the landscape. Makes a Great Hedge, Screen, Topiary or Foundation Planting Since it can be pruned heavily and eventually becomes quite large, this long-lived plant is an excellent choice for a tall hedge or foundation planting, though its eventual height should be considered when choosing a location. American Boxwood is also a favorite for topiary use, which requires a dense habit and the ability to grow well after shearing. And it is very useful for outlining a parking area or screening a private space, as well as providing a background for perennials or blooming plants. Growing Tips: Though American Boxwood will grow in full sun to full shade, it prefers dappled shade, especially in the afternoon; full sun can scorch the leaves in summer, and full shade will make the plant leggy as it stretches for light. For most lush growth, plant in moist but well-drained soil, though it will survive drought periods with no problem. Mulch each year with bark or compost to protect its rather shallow root system and conserve water. Boxwood takes pruning well, but wait until after danger of frost in the late spring before cutting. The plants will stay dense to the ground if you leave the bottoms a little wider than the tops, so sun can reach the lower branches.