Box (buxus sempervirens)

• Classic evergreen shrub/tree (up to 5–9m if unclipped), dense glossy dark green foliage for year-round structure and screening.
• Premier choice for formal hedging, topiary, parterres, and low edging – slow-growing, responds extremely well to clipping.
• Highly tolerant of shade, chalky/alkaline soils, urban pollution, and coastal conditions; very hardy once established.
• Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds; low-maintenance with long lifespan (centuries)

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March.
• Location: Full sun to deep shade; well-drained soil (tolerates poor, chalky, or clay but dislikes waterlogged); sheltered or exposed; space according to use (tight clipping for hedges, more for specimens).
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root width; add organic matter to very poor soils; improve drainage if needed.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check soil mark on stem); firm in, water thoroughly, mulch base (keep clear of trunk) to control weeds and conserve soil moisture.
• Aftercare: Water well first year in dry spells; clip hedges/topiary once or twice yearly (late spring and late summer); feed lightly in spring.