Buxus microphylla japonica 'Winter Gem'
Excellent evergreen shrub for small hedges.
Among the hardiest of Boxwoods, the rich green foliage acquires
a golden bronze hue through winter, returning to green in spring.
Evergreen.
Botanical Pronunciation: BUK-sus mik-ro-FIL-la
Key feature: Hedge Plant
Plant type: Shrub
Deciduous/evergreen: Evergreen
Cold hardiness zones: 5 - 9
Light needs: Partial to full sun
Water Needs: Needs regular watering - weekly, or more often in extreme heat.
Average landscape size: Moderate growing 4 to 6 ft. tall and wide, when unpruned.
Growth rate: Moderate
Flower color: Yellow
Blooms: Inconspicuous
Foliage color: Green
Care Information
Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep,
extensive root system. Feed with a general purpose fertilizer before new growth begins
in spring. For a tidy, neat appearance, shear annually to shape. Pruning time: summer
after flowering.
Design Ideas
This is the classic hedge plant. Its dense, evergreen growth makes it perfect for
shearing into a small, formal hedge. Ideal for defining different spaces in the garden
or for a tidy foundation cover-up. It is especially lovely against red brick. Use as a
partition to divide your front yard or driveway from your neighbor's. Also beautiful
as background foliage. Creates lovely topiaries, particularly in cone shapes if planted
where it snows. An excellent plant for parterres and hedge mazes. Keeps its color over winter.
Companion Plants
Boxwood is so versatile and offers a nice backdrop to a variety of low growing
shrubs and perennials. If kept more natural in shape, pair with Lilac, Burning Bush,
Smoke Tree and Japanese Rose. For a formal appearance or knot garden, combine
with topiary forms, fragrant plants and culinary herbs such as Germander,
Rosemary and Sage.
History
Also known as B. harlandii, this species is native to Japan. Boxwood is so
named because its very hard wood was valued in ancient times for making
boxes and small containers.
My Little Yard this week June 17 2012
