Box Hedge

A box hedge is an evergreen shrub which makes an excellent formal hedge. This page provides a brief description of the varieties of box hedging.

Common Name:	Common Box
Botanical Name:	Buxus sempervirens
Description:	Common box is a vigorous and bushy evergreen shrub (or small tree). It is ideal for hedging or screening. It has small dark-green glossy leaves.
Native Hedge?	Yes
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	Yes
Ideal Height:	Medium (30cm - 2m)
Average growth p.a.	Slow (up to 15cm p.a)
Suitable conditions	Coastal areas Chalky soil Light or heavy soil
Unsuitable conditions	Exposed/windy conditions Wet sites
Responds to renovation?	Yes
Planting Distance	30cm
Maintenance:	High - clip 2/3 times during the growing season

Common Name:	Dwarf Box
Botanical Name:	Buxus sempervirens "Suffruticosa"
Description:	Dwarf box is a very slow growing evergreen shrub. It is ideal for knots and parterres or edging hedges and can be clipped into various shapes. It has small dark-green glossy leaves.
Native Hedge?	Yes
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	Yes
Ideal Height:	Short (15cm - 60cm)
Average growth p.a.	Very Slow (up to 5cm p.a)
Suitable conditions	Coastal areas Chalky soil Light or heavy soil Sun, partial shade (full shade if not too dry)
Unsuitable conditions	Exposed/windy conditions Wet sites
Responds to renovation?	Yes
Planting Distance	10cm
Maintenance:	High - clip 2/3 times during the growing season

Common Name:	Variegated Box
Botanical Name:	Buxus sempervirens "Elegantissima"
Description:	Variegated box is an attractive evergreen shrub with mid-green leaves which have irregular creamy margins. It can be used for hedging or as a shrub.
Native Hedge?	Yes
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	Yes
Ideal Height:	Short-Medium (30cm - 90cm)
Average growth p.a.	Very Slow (up to 5cm p.a)
Suitable conditions	Coastal areas Chalky soil Light or heavy soil Sun, partial shade (performs best in partial shade)
Unsuitable conditions	Exposed/windy conditions Wet sites
Responds to renovation?	Yes
Planting Distance	25cm
Maintenance:	High - clip 2/3 times during the growing season