Evergreen

Little Missy boxwood

Buxus microphylla 'Little Missy'

‘Little Missy’ is a compact, rounded boxwood with small, dark green leaves that keep their color through winter. Its dense evergreen growth suits low hedges and edging, and it can be sheared when a defined outline is wanted. Plants are often described at about 2 feet tall and wide, although longer-term estimates reach roughly 3 feet, so allow for growth beyond the initial low border. Choose a site in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. In Southwest Washington, leave air circulation around plants and watch for boxwood blight or leafminer symptoms.

Ask about this plant

At a glance

Mature height: About 2 ft; roughly 3 ft over decades
Mature spread: About 2 ft; roughly 3 ft over decades
Light: Full sun or partial shade
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–8

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Dense, rounded growth makes ‘Little Missy’ suitable for edging and low hedges. Its small evergreen leaves hold their dark green color through winter.

Where to plant

Allow room for a shrub that may reach roughly 3 feet tall and wide over many years. Choose full sun or partial shade and leave space around plants for air movement.

Through the seasons

Dark green foliage persists through winter. Flowers and fruit have not been established as features of this cultivar.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

In Southwest Washington, check boxwood foliage for blight symptoms and leafminer damage. Promptly remove affected leaves where practical, and confirm suspected blight before removing a plant.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in well-drained soil. Avoid overhead irrigation, which leaves foliage wet and can favor box blight.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Shear plants to maintain a low, defined hedge if desired. Disinfect pruning tools between plants, especially when disease symptoms appear.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Box blight

Leaf spots, black stem streaks, blighted foliage, or rapid leaf loss.

Help your plant thrive

Allow air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation, and disinfect pruning tools. If blight is confirmed, destroy infected plants and debris; do not compost them.