Buxus sempervirens

Description: A large, slow-growing evergreen shrub with small, glossy oval or oblong leaves and a compact habit. the plant has become deservedly popular as a topiary plant.  Can be obtained in a wide range of sizes and shapes to suit many situations. The shapes can provide formality to the garden, can provide an interesting focus or can bring fun to a garden.

Uses: Suitable for large scale projects or in small courtyard gardens. Excellent as a container plant.

Climate/Position: Sun or partial shade avoiding exposed sites as may be scorched in the hottest of summer sun or in cold winds.

Height/Spread: The plant may be pruned to a range of sizes and shapes from 60cm to 8 metres

Soil Requirements: Well drained soil

Pruning: Buxus grown as topiary plants respond well to pruning. New growth can be trimmed throughout the growing season (June to the end of August) to retain the plant's shape. Clip as lightly as possible during the first year to allow the roots to establish themselves.

Special Requirements: Feeding container plants throughout summer will ensure healthy plants are maintained.

Additional Interest: Plants of good size and shape have been grown and trained over a number of years and this is reflected in the price of a good plant - a work of garden art.  Ornamental topiary may be trained on a metal frame and this should be retained to keep the required shape