| Korean boxwoods tend to turn brown in cold weather so avoid these. Buxus sempervirens, or American Boxwood, will retain its green color during winter. The American boxwood is a wide-spreading shrub or small tree with very dense, evergreen foliage. Although very old plants may reach 20 feet, it more commonly grows to a height of 5 to 10 feet. Leaves are dark green above and yellow green beneath, 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches long, and oblong to oval in shape. It is usually used as a foundation, corner, accent, or screening plant. This species and most of its cultivars are tolerant of cold weather. Buxus sempervirens cultivars: 'Angustifolia - largest leaves; often tree-like in habit 'Elegantissima- cream-margined leaves 'Graham Blandy- narrow upright, columnar; 9'x11/2' in 20 years 'Pendula- pendulous branchlets; grows into small tree 'Suffruticosa - very dwarf, slow-growing, and compact; leaves up to 3/4 inch long; called "edging" or "English" boxwood; one of the most popular cultivars 'Vardar Valley'- low-growing, flat-topped, mounding form (2-3' by 4-5'); dark blue-green foliage Hope this information is helpful! |
