A very hardy, naturally globe-shaped box forming a tight green ball with minimal clipping. Excellent for cold-climate low hedges, knot gardens and formal balls.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 60 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Green Gem Box
Botanically, Buxus sempervirens 'Green Gem' is a slow-growing shrub in the Buxaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Green Gem Box
Green Gem Box suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Green Gem Box does best in free-draining and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 50 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Green Gem Box does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Green Gem Box in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Green Gem Box in the garden
Green Gem Box earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, clipping into topiary and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Green Gem Box with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Green Gem Box
Plant Sale lists Green Gem Box as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
