Buxus M. ‘Winter Gem’ 5Gal

Latin Name: Buxus microphylla var. japonica ‘Winter Gem’ (sometimes listed as var. koreana)

Common Name: Winter Gem Japanese Boxwood

Zones: 5-9 (5-8 per some nurseries)

Height & Spread: 3-4 feet tall, spreading 4-5 feet wide (sizes range from 2-3 feet to 4-6 feet depending on source and age)

Descriptive Features: A vigorous, easy-to-grow, small-leaved boxwood regarded as a go-to choice for colder regions, among the hardiest of the small-leaved boxwoods. Forms a neat, dense, rounded to compact evergreen shrub of shiny, deep green, sun-tolerant leaves. In cold winters the foliage can take on a golden-bronze tint, but it is one of the first to green up again in spring and generally resists the winter browning that plagues other boxwoods. In April, small, yellowish-green flowers appear that are not showy. Grows faster than some other boxwoods and clips easily into low hedges, balls, pyramids, and other topiary forms, or can be left natural. Light trimming in season keeps it compact. Adaptable to full sun, part shade, or even full shade in any soil that isn’t constantly wet, and it tolerates a range of pH. In Zone 5, a sheltered site that protects it from strong winter winds and sun is best. Deer- and rabbit-resistant, but susceptible to boxwood leafminer, mites, and box tree moth. An excellent choice for hedges, borders, foundation plantings, specimens, topiary, and containers in full sun to part shade.