Buxus is one of the most common plants used to create topiary designs and is sometimes considered the standard tree for topiary designs. Buxus is a large, evergreen shrub, also classified as a small tree with small, glossy, dark green leaves that are about 3 centimetres long. In spring, small, yellow flowers bloom in the leaf axils, adding to the overall shiny effect of Buxus plants.
Duo Ball Buxus Topiary – Specimen Plant
Buxus, also called Boxwood are slow-growing plants and grow more slowly than most other plants used for topiary. Several species of Buxus plants can be used for topiary but the most common, and perhaps the best options are the common Buxus sempervirens (English box), Buxus sempervirens suffuiticosa (Dutch box), and Buxus microphylla var japonica (Japanese box).
The Japanese English box (Buxus sempervirens) can be easily trimmed and trained into several shapes including buxus spirals, multiple stemmed standards, large topiary buxus balls, pyramids, lollipops, twisted stem standards, and so on. Dutch box (Buxus sempervirens suffuiticosa) is more suited for simple shapes like simple buxus hedges or small topiary balls. Japanese box (Buxus microphylla var japonica) on the other hand is the best option for larger topiary designs. BUY: Buxus for sale from UK suppliers
How to grow Buxus
Boxwood plants are propagated from semi-ripe stem cuttings in summer and are best planted in well-draining soil to minimise the possible boxwood problems that it is susceptible to. We have a great grow guide for healthy buxus here for you to crib up on!
They are easy to grow and are tolerant of the poor sol and lighting conditions but it is best to position Buxus in a sheltered position where it will still get sufficient sunlight that will encourage the dense and bushy growth habit.
Pruning should be done in spring, summer, or autumn after new growth has been established so that the new foliage is fully mature before cold and dry winter comes. Although older plants can survive with hard pruning, young plants should be pruned more delicately. After pruning you can use a general fertiliser and mulch the plant to help it recover faster.
Where should I position Buxus in my garden?
Buxus plants should be placed (READ: How far apart should buxus be planted) with north, east, west, or south-facing aspect where they can get full sun or partial shade to encourage foliage growth and maintain a bushy growth habit. READ: When is best to prune or trim your buxus?
How tall does Buxus grow and spread?
Buxus plants are slow-growing plants and that is what perhaps makes them the best option for topiary designs. They grow only about 10-15 centimetres annually eventually reaching heights of 2 to 4 metres. Japanese boxwood is the fastest-growing Buxus plant, while Dutch boxwood is the slowest-growing cultivar and hence is nicknamed dwarf English boxwood. READ: How to make your buxus grow faster
What kind of soil does Buxus need?
Buxus plants can be grown in any soil type and will tolerate poor soil options as long as watered and fed regularly. Alkaline, acidic, or neutral soil that is well-draining is ideal for your Box plants.
- READ: How to save a dying Buxus & common problems you might have
