Evergreen

Winter Gem boxwood

Buxus microphylla 'Winter Gem'

Winter Gem boxwood is a slow-growing, rounded evergreen shrub that can anchor a low hedge, container, or clipped form. It usually reaches about 4–6 feet tall, while its spread can range from about 2–6 feet, so leave room beyond a newly planted outline. Small, pale flowers appear in spring with lighter green new growth; winter leaves may stay green or turn bronze to reddish tones. In Southwest Washington, give it full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Full sun with dry soil can scorch foliage, and crowded, wet growth, especially in dense, sheared hedges, raises the risk of boxwood blight.

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At a glance

Mature height: Usually 4–6 ft
Mature spread: About 2–6 ft
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness: USDA zone 5

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Its rounded evergreen form suits hedges, containers, and clipped shapes. Allow for a mature shrub that may reach 4–6 feet tall.

Where to plant

Choose full sun to partial shade and leave space for a spread that may reach 6 feet. Dry soil in full sun can scorch the leaves.

Through the seasons

Small, pale flowers and lighter green new growth appear in spring. Winter foliage may remain green or shift to bronze or reddish tones.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Boxwood blight is a concern for boxwoods in the region, even though Winter Gem has been rated moderately tolerant. Watch for leaf spots and dark stem streaks.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in well-drained soil. Water new plants while they establish, and avoid overhead irrigation to limit prolonged leaf wetness.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Winter Gem responds well to pruning for hedges or topiary. Thin dense growth to improve airflow and disinfect tools between affected plants.

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.

Boxwood blight

Leaf spots, dark stem streaks, blighted foliage, or sudden leaf drop.

Help your plant thrive

Allow air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation, and disinfect pruning tools. Confirm suspected blight; remove infected plants and debris without composting them.