Buxus M. ‘Green Gem’ 15-18"

Latin Name: Buxus ‘Green Gem’ (B. microphylla var. koreana × B. sempervirens)

Common Name: Green Gem Boxwood

Zones: 4-9 (most sources list 4-8)

Height & Spread: 3-4 feet tall, spreading 3-4 feet wide (some nurseries list 2-3 feet tall by 3-4 feet wide)

Descriptive Features: A dwarf, slow-growing, broadleaf evergreen from Sheridan Nurseries’ Sheridan Green Series in Ontario, Canada, noted for its naturally globe-shaped, almost perfectly round form and excellent winter hardiness. Dense branching carries small, glossy, elliptic to oval, dark green leaves that hold their color well through winter, with a bronze-green tinge in fall. Resistant to winter burn, which makes it a standout in colder climates. In April, small, inconspicuous, pale green, lightly fragrant flowers appear. Needs little pruning to keep its shape, though it takes shearing well for a more formal look. Its compact size suits confined spaces, narrow pathways, low hedges, and foundation plantings where larger boxwoods would outgrow the space. Best in full sun to part shade, with part shade preferred, in moist, well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It has shallow roots, so a 1-2 inch layer of mulch helps, and a sheltered site protects it from strong winter winds. Brush off heavy snow promptly to prevent branch damage. Deer- and rabbit-resistant and low-maintenance. An excellent choice for hedges, borders, foundation plantings, containers, and specimens in sun or part shade.