Where is boxwood preferred in America?

Do boxwood trees grow in America? Yes, boxwood (Buxus) is native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and some parts of the Americas, including the United States. It is widely grown and cultivated throughout the country. In the United States, boxwood is particularly popular for its versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ability to thrive in a range of climates.

Boxwood is grown in various regions across the United States, including the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Midwest, and parts of the West Coast. Different boxwood varieties are suitable for different climates, so it’s important to choose a variety that is well-suited to your specific region.

Common boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) and its cultivars, such as ‘Green Velvet’ and ‘American’, are among the most commonly grown boxwood varieties in the United States. Other popular varieties include Korean boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. koreana), Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica), and various hybrid cultivars.

Boxwood is used in a wide range of landscaping applications in the United States, including hedges, borders, topiaries, foundation plantings, and container gardening. Its evergreen nature, compact growth habit, and ability to be shaped and pruned make it a versatile and popular choice for both residential and commercial landscapes.

When choosing boxwood for your specific location, it’s important to consider factors such as the local climate, soil conditions, sun exposure, and specific requirements of the chosen variety. Consulting with local nurseries, garden centers, or horticulture experts can help you select the appropriate boxwood variety for your region and specific landscaping needs.

What are the names of native boxwood plants of America?

In the United States, there are a few native boxwood species that are commonly referred to as boxwood. These native species include:

1. American Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens): This species is native to the eastern and southeastern parts of the United States. It is also known as common boxwood or European boxwood, although it is native to America as well. American boxwood is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub with dense foliage and small, dark green leaves.
2. Mountain Boxwood (Pachistima canbyi): Also known as Canby’s mountain boxwood, this native species is found in the eastern and central parts of the United States. It is a low-growing evergreen shrub with small, elliptical leaves. Mountain boxwood is typically found in woodland areas and rocky slopes.

It’s important to note that while these native boxwood species exist in the United States, they are not as widely cultivated or used in landscaping compared to the commonly cultivated non-native boxwood varieties (Buxus spp.) that have been introduced and bred for their specific characteristics.

Most commonly cultivated boxwood varieties in the United States are non-native species or cultivars that have been imported from Europe, Asia, or developed through hybridization. These non-native varieties, such as Korean boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. koreana) and Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica), are widely used for landscaping purposes due to their desirable growth habits, leaf characteristics, and adaptability to different climates.

When selecting boxwood for your landscaping needs, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements and characteristics of the chosen variety, whether native or non-native, to ensure it is suitable for your local climate and growing conditions.

Where is American boxwood used?

American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens), as a native species in the United States, is used in various landscaping applications. Here are some common uses of American boxwood:

1. Hedges: American boxwood is often used to create hedges due to its dense foliage and ability to be shaped and pruned. It can be trimmed into formal, manicured hedges to provide privacy, define boundaries, or add structure to outdoor spaces.
2. Foundation Plantings: American boxwood is frequently planted near the foundations of buildings. Its compact growth habit and evergreen foliage make it an attractive choice for framing entrances or accentuating architectural features.
3. Borders and Edging: American boxwood can be used as a border plant or edging along garden beds, walkways, or driveways. Its neat growth habit and dark green leaves provide a defined and classic look to the landscape.
4. Topiaries and Sculptures: Due to its ability to tolerate shaping and pruning, American boxwood is suitable for creating topiaries and sculptural forms. It can be trained into various shapes, such as balls, cones, or pyramids, adding a touch of elegance and artistry to gardens.
5. Specimen Plants: American boxwood can be used as a standalone specimen plant to create focal points or focal plantings. Its dense foliage and year-round greenery make it visually appealing, especially in areas where its compact size can be appreciated.
6. Erosion Control: American boxwood is sometimes used for erosion control on slopes or hillsides. Its shallow root system helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion.
7. Wildlife Habitat: American boxwood provides cover and nesting sites for birds and small mammals. The dense foliage offers protection and shelter, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly landscapes.

These are just a few examples of how American boxwood is used in landscaping. Its adaptability, attractive appearance, and versatility make it a popular choice for various landscape design styles, from formal gardens to more naturalistic settings. When using American boxwood, it’s important to consider its growth habits, light and soil requirements, and local climate conditions to ensure optimal growth and long-term success. Boxwood plant characteristics in America >>

How to prune boxwood in America

Pruning boxwood in America follows similar principles to pruning boxwood in other regions. Here are some general guidelines for pruning boxwood:

1. Timing: The best time to prune boxwood in America is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This timing allows the plant to recover and generate new growth during the growing season. Avoid pruning boxwood in late summer or fall as it may stimulate new growth that can be damaged by winter frost.
2. Tools: Use sharp and clean pruning shears or hedge trimmers to make precise cuts. Disinfect the tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
3. Shaping and Maintenance Pruning: To maintain the desired shape and size of boxwood hedges or shrubs, shear or prune lightly to remove excessive growth. Aim to maintain a natural, rounded form while ensuring good air circulation and sunlight penetration throughout the plant.
4. Thinning Pruning: Occasionally, thinning pruning may be necessary to reduce the density of the foliage and improve air circulation within the plant. This involves selectively removing some branches from the interior of the boxwood to open up the plant and prevent it from becoming too dense.
5. Renewal Pruning: If boxwood becomes overgrown or misshapen, renewal pruning can be done to rejuvenate the plant. This involves cutting the entire plant back to a lower point, typically a few inches above ground level. Renewal pruning should be done during the dormant season to allow new growth to emerge.
6. Pruning Tips: When making cuts, ensure that the pruned branches have some green foliage remaining to support regrowth. Avoid cutting into old, woody stems as they may not produce new growth. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud to promote healthy regrowth.
7. Aftercare: After pruning, provide adequate water and nutrients to help the boxwood recover and stimulate new growth. Mulching around the base of the plant can help conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

It’s important to note that the specific pruning techniques and practices may vary depending on the variety and size of boxwood, as well as personal preferences and specific goals for the plant. Consulting with a local horticulturist or professional landscaper familiar with boxwood care in your specific region can provide more tailored guidance and recommendations for pruning boxwood in America. Does boxwood grow in US? >>

Is American boxwood same as common boxwood?

Yes, American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is the same as common boxwood. It is often referred to by both names interchangeably. “American boxwood” indicates that it is native to America, while “common boxwood” or “European boxwood” refers to its widespread cultivation and popularity in Europe. It is a widely used species of boxwood in landscaping and is known for its dense foliage, small dark green leaves, and ability to be shaped and pruned into hedges, topiaries, and other ornamental forms.

Where to buy boxwood in the US?

Boxwood plants can be purchased from various sources in the United States. Here are some common options for buying boxwood:

1. Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Visit your local nurseries and garden centers, which often carry a variety of plants, including boxwood. They may have different boxwood varieties and sizes available, allowing you to select the ones that best suit your needs and preferences. The advantage of shopping locally is that you can inspect the plants firsthand and receive guidance from knowledgeable staff.
2. Online Plant Retailers: Many online retailers specialize in selling plants and offer a wide range of boxwood varieties. These retailers often ship plants directly to your doorstep, allowing you to access a broader selection of boxwood options. Ensure that you choose reputable retailers with good customer reviews and consider factors such as shipping costs and plant health guarantees.
3. Mail-Order Nurseries: There are mail-order nurseries that specialize in shipping plants to customers. These nurseries typically have a wide selection of plants, including boxwood. You can browse their catalogs, select the desired boxwood varieties, and place an order. The plants will be shipped to you at the appropriate time for planting.
4. Wholesale Nurseries: Wholesale nurseries cater to landscaping professionals, but they may also sell to individuals. Contact local wholesale nurseries to inquire about purchasing boxwood in larger quantities or specific varieties. Keep in mind that minimum order quantities may apply.
5. Plant Sales and Expos: Keep an eye out for plant sales, garden expos, or horticultural events in your area. These events often feature vendors offering a variety of plants, including boxwood. It’s an opportunity to explore different options and potentially find unique or rare varieties.

When purchasing boxwood, consider factors such as the specific variety, plant size, health, and compatibility with your local climate and growing conditions. It’s also important to check for any specific care instructions or recommendations for the chosen boxwood variety.