Science · High-Value Shrubs
Boxwood
The classic formal hedge — slow-growing, so losses are costly and hard to replace with matching size.
Buxus spp. · Evergreen hedge shrub
Profile
- Zones
- USDA 5–9
- Size
- 2–8 ft, shaped
- Growth
- Slow
- Roots
- Shallow
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- ~20–28%
- Salinity tolerance
- Poor
- Drought tolerance
- Moderate
Wet feet cause root rot; dry soil causes bronzing.
Problems to watch
- Boxwood blight
- Root rot (Phytophthora)
- Boxwood leafminer
- Volutella
Stress signs
- Bronzing
- Leaf drop
- Patchy brown sections
Where you'll find it
- Formal gardens
- Estates
- Clubhouse entries
More high-value shrubs
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.