Dwarf English Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa'
The ultimate evergreen hedge plant prized for its dense, small leaves and ability to hold precise shapes through pruning. This slow-growing classic creates formal garden structure and year-round green interest, perfect for borders, topiaries, and parterre gardens. Its compact nature makes it ideal for small spaces and container growing.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Partial shade to full sun
Zones
5–8
USDA hardiness
Height
5-20 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Dwarf English Boxwood in USDA Zone 7
All Zone 7 shrub →Zone Map
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Dwarf English Boxwood · Zones 5–8
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Clay, High Organic Matter, Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Occasionally Wet. Height: 5 ft. 0 in. - 20 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 5 ft. 0 in. - 15 ft. 0 in.. Growth rate: Slow. Propagation: Stem Cutting. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.
Harvesting
Globose, 1/3 inch dehiscent capsule that matures to brown.
Color: Brown/Copper. Type: Capsule. Length: < 1 inch. Width: < 1 inch.
Bloom time: Spring
History & Origin
Origin: Europe to N. Iran, N. Africa
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer, Drought, Rabbits
Considerations
- -Toxic (Leaves): Low severity
- -Causes contact dermatitis
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Lavender
Repels pests like moths and beetles while thriving in similar well-draining soil conditions
Rosemary
Deters boxwood leafminer and other pests with strong aromatic oils, shares similar sun and soil requirements
Marigolds
Natural pest deterrent that repels nematodes and aphids while adding color contrast
Catmint
Repels ants, aphids, and rodents while providing complementary blue-purple flowers
Thyme
Ground cover that deters slugs and cabbage worms, tolerates similar growing conditions
Alliums
Bulbs repel aphids, slugs, and rodents while requiring minimal water like boxwood
Sage
Aromatic herb that repels cabbage moths and beetles, thrives in similar alkaline soil
Sedum
Drought-tolerant ground cover that attracts beneficial insects and complements boxwood's structure
Keep Apart
Black Walnut
Produces juglone toxin that stunts growth and causes yellowing in boxwood
Large Maple Trees
Creates excessive shade and root competition, causing boxwood to become leggy and weak
Pachysandra
Competes aggressively for nutrients and can harbor fungal diseases that spread to boxwood
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Susceptible to boxwood blight, root rot in wet soils
Common Pests
Boxwood leaf miner, psyllids, mites
Diseases
Boxwood blight, root rot, canker