Buxus semperivens

**Boxwood – Buxus sempervirens Variety Description**

Buxus sempervirens, commonly known as boxwood or evergreen box, belongs to the Buxaceae family. This ornamental plant is extremely popular in gardens, parks, and landscapes due to its dense, evergreen foliage, compact growth, and versatile applications. The following description will explore the characteristics, care requirements, and uses of boxwood.

### Appearance
Buxus sempervirens is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach heights of 1 to 6 meters and can spread to a width of 1 to 2 meters, depending on maintenance and pruning. The leaves are small, glossy green, elliptical in shape, and densely arranged on the branches, giving the plant a formal appearance. The leaves remain throughout the year, providing a constant green background. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, typically blooming in the spring, but they are not as showy as the flowers of other flowering plants, making the primary appeal of boxwood lie in its foliage.

### Site and Soil Requirements
Boxwood thrives in both sunny and partially shaded locations but shows the best growth in full sun. It is adaptable to various soil types, but it grows best in well-drained, humus-rich, moderately moist soils. While the plant tolerates a range of pH levels, neutral to slightly acidic soils are ideal. Avoiding waterlogging is crucial, as it can lead to root rot.

### Care
Buxus sempervirens has relatively low maintenance requirements, making it ideal for beginner gardeners. The plants require regular watering during the growing season, but established specimens typically tolerate drier conditions well. Annual pruning is recommended to maintain the plant's shape and encourage denser growth. A spring cut helps stimulate the growth of young shoots, and boxwood can be shaped into various forms, whether rounded, squared, or more elaborate geometric shapes.

### Resistance
Boxwood is largely resistant to most pests and diseases, although attention should be paid to pests such as the boxwood moth (Cydalima perspectalis) and fungal diseases like root rot. It is advisable to plant the specimens in well-ventilated areas to minimize the risk of diseases.

### Use Cases
Buxus sempervirens has wide-ranging applications in landscape design. It is excellent for hedges, creating privacy and windbreaks. Additionally, boxwood is an ideal choice for ground cover, as it beautifully blankets the soil and suppresses weed growth. It adds decorative value to rock gardens and ornamental gardens, and shaped boxwoods lend a classic, formal touch to gardens.

### Summary
Buxus sempervirens is an attractive and versatile ornamental plant that enhances garden beauty with its evergreen foliage and the ability to be pruned into various shapes. Its low maintenance requirements and adaptability make it an excellent choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners. With its robust growth and dense foliage, boxwood is a superb addition to any landscape.