Boxwood Shrubs
From PlantWiki
| Boxwood Shrubs |
|---|
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| Species |
| Buxus |
Contents |
History
Boxwood or Buxus is a genus of about 70 species. The Buxus species has been used in formal gardens for hundreds of years. Many historical gardens are known for their boxwoods. They are native to parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Madagascar, South and Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Only the European and some Asian species are frost-tolerant; the remainders are tropical and sub-tropical. These shrubs are slow-growing and evergreen.
Characteristics
Boxwood shrubs are a common choice in landscaping. It truly is one of the most versatile landscape plants. Most boxwood is very hardy and is able to withstand poor soil conditions fairly well. All boxwoods are evergreens, with glossy green leaves and small flowers which often go unnoticed amid the thick greenery. Boxwood stems are thick and woody, making the plant very stout and hardy.
Most have tiny foliage and a dense texture, though there is some variation with that as well. Boxwood shrubs grow best in well-drained soil and in a partial shade environment, though some will tolerate full sun if it isn't too strong.
Uses
Classically, boxwood is used to make hedges and garden borders, especially in traditional English gardens, and it can also be used as an accent plant in the garden. The Boxwood plant can be used by itself or with many other plants to form a foundation planting. It can be used to enclose or define an area, to separate one space from another, or as a screen. It makes a superb background to more colorful plants. Use the boxwood shrub to outline a walkway, a border or terrace.