ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 100–500 cm
- Spread
- 100–400 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Buxaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- green-yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade or full sun in chalky, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells. Feed in spring with organic fertilizer. Watch out for box tree moth and box blight — inspect regularly and act quickly if problems appear.
Pruning tips
Trim twice a year for a crisp shape: late May and early September. Prune on an overcast day to prevent leaf scorch. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid spreading infections.
Good companions
ShrubsRosa gallica
Gallica Rose
The Gallica Rose is one of the oldest cultivated rose species, grown since the Middle Ages. Its semi-double, vivid red-pink flowers appear in June and July and carry an intense fragrance. Decorative rose hips develop after flowering.
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
TreesTaxus baccata
English Yew
English Yew is an evergreen conifer used both as a freestanding tree and as a formal hedge. Its dark green needles are densely packed and form an impenetrable screen. Female trees bear striking red berries in autumn. All parts except the berry flesh are poisonous.