Boxwood is an evergreen shrub that is highly regarded for its beauty and versatility. Whether you want to create a hedge, borders or topiaries, boxwood is an ideal choice for structuring your garden. But with so many varieties of boxwood available, it can be difficult to make a choice. In this article, we will help you find the variety of boxwood that best suits your needs and desires! 🌱
Why Choose Boxwood?
Boxwood is a hardy, easy-care plant that is suitable for many situations. Whether you have a garden, balcony or terrace, there is a variety of boxwood that will suit your needs. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, boxwood is perfect for creating shapes through the art of topiary. If you would like advice on caring for boxwood, check out our complete guide on caring for artificial plants .
🌳 The Different Varieties of Boxwood: Which One to Choose?
There are several varieties of boxwood, each with its own characteristics. Here are the main varieties:
1. Buxus sempervirens (Common boxwood)
Buxus sempervirens is the most widespread and widely used variety in gardens. Its dense, evergreen foliage makes it a perfect choice for hedges, borders and topiaries.
- Size: Can reach up to 5 meters in height.
- Foliage: Dark green, shiny, small oval leaves.
- Use: Ideal for hedges, borders and topiaries.
🌿 Tip: Buxus sempervirens can be pruned easily, making it an excellent choice for topiary enthusiasts.
For those looking for a natural look without the hassle of maintenance, opt for artificial boxwood . Discover our collection of artificial boxwood that offers the same aesthetic look with zero maintenance!
2. Buxus microphylla (Small-leaved boxwood)
As its name suggests, Buxus microphylla has small leaves and is often used for borders or small hedges. It is also hardier than Buxus sempervirens, making it ideal for colder climates.
- Size: Up to 1 meter in height.
- Foliage: Small, oval, light green leaves.
- Use: Perfect for borders, small beds, or as potted boxwood.
🌟 Care advice: Buxus microphylla requires regular watering, especially in summer, to stay in good shape.
For those who love meticulous details, this variety is ideal for structuring flowerbeds or accompanying flower beds. Check out our article on how to choose the perfect artificial plants for each room for some combination ideas!
3. Buxus balearica (Balearic boxwood)
Buxus balearica is a less common but very interesting variety. Its leaves are larger than those of other varieties, which gives it an original and decorative appearance.
- Size: Up to 2 meters in height.
- Foliage: Large, oval, shiny dark green leaves.
- Use: Perfect for medium hedges or as an isolated plant.
🍃 Note: This variety is more suitable for regions with mild climates, as it is less resistant to cold.
This variety blends perfectly with exotic plants or Mediterranean environments. You can also use it to frame an entrance or path.
4. Buxus harlandii (Harland boxwood)
Buxus harlandii is a slow growing variety of boxwood, making it an ideal choice for growing in pots or for small gardens.
- Size: Up to 1 meter in height.
- Foliage: Small, thick, dark green leaves.
- Use: Perfectly suited for bonsai or small flowerbeds.
This boxwood is ideal for container gardening enthusiasts because it is easy to shape. Also discover how to integrate other plants into your potted arrangements in our article on lucky plants .
5. Buxus colchica (Red Boxwood)
Buxus colchica is a variety of boxwood that grows naturally in the mountainous regions of Turkey and the Caucasus. It is very hardy and resistant.
- Size: Up to 3 meters in height.
- Foliage: Dark green, shiny leaves, slightly larger than those of Buxus sempervirens.
- Use: Suitable for hedges and flowerbeds.
🌱 This variety is ideal for cold climates and offers good disease resistance. It is an excellent choice for mountainous regions or for gardeners looking for a hardy plant.
🌿 The Benefits of Artificial Boxwood
Looking for the beauty of boxwood without the hassle of maintenance? Artificial boxwood is a perfect option. In addition to requiring no pruning or watering, artificial boxwood always remains green and dense, regardless of the weather conditions.
Choosing an artificial boxwood also means choosing a decorative element that fits easily into any space, from the garden to the terrace to the interior. Discover our range of high - quality artificial boxwood balls to enhance your spaces effortlessly.
💧 Care Tips for Your Natural Boxwood
- Watering: Regular watering is necessary, especially in summer. Be careful not to let the water stagnate, this could cause the roots to rot.
- Pruning: Prune your boxwood two to three times a year to keep it in good shape and remove dead branches.
- Fertilizer: A special boxwood fertilizer in spring and fall will help it stay healthy.
If you have opted for an artificial boxwood, you just need to dust it from time to time. For more advice, find our tips in our article on maintaining artificial plants .
🌞 Where to Plant your Boxwood?
Boxwoods thrive both in the ground and in pots. They appreciate well-drained soils and partially shaded to sunny locations. However, boxwoods do not like excess moisture and soil that is too acidic.
🍃 How to Use Boxwood in Your Garden?
Boxwoods are perfect for:
- Create structured hedges
- Create topiaries in various shapes (balls, spirals, etc.)
- Delineate paths or flowerbeds
- Serve as decorative elements in pots or planters
🌿 Conclusion: Which Variety of Boxwood to Choose?
Depending on your needs and your environment, there is a variety of boxwood that will meet your expectations. If you are looking for a dense and formal hedge, opt for the Buxus sempervirens . If you have a small garden or want a potted boxwood, the Buxus microphylla is ideal. And if you want an original and decorative boxwood, turn to the Buxus balearica .
For those who don't want to worry about maintenance, remember that artificial boxwoods are a great alternative. They offer the same aesthetic rendering as natural boxwoods without the constraints of pruning, watering or treatment.
Whatever you choose, boxwood will bring an elegant and structured touch to your space, and with our guide, you are now ready to make the perfect choice! 🌳🌿
