Dutch Box, Dwarf Edging Box, Dutch Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ (commonly known as Dwarf Boxwood) is a slow-growing, dense, evergreen shrub that is widely used for low hedging, edging, and topiary.
Key Features:
- Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, and slow-growing.
- Size: Typically reaches about 30-60 cm (1-2 ft) in height and spreads to a similar width.
- Foliage: Small, glossy, dark green leaves that remain evergreen throughout the year.
- Growth Rate: Very slow compared to other boxwood varieties.
- Flowers: Tiny, inconspicuous, yellow-green flowers in spring, not particularly ornamental.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline to neutral soils.
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Uses: Ideal for formal edging, knot gardens, parterre designs, low borders, and bonsai.
Care Tips:
- Pruning: Regular trimming is necessary to maintain shape, especially in formal gardens.
- Watering: Requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Pest/Disease Resistance: Can be susceptible to boxwood blight, leaf miners, and root rot if not properly cared for.
- Mulching: Helps retain moisture and protect roots in extreme weather.
