Dwarf Box
(Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa')

The Dwarf Box has little, rich, dark green leaves that look dense and bushy. It is very good at maintaining its shape, considering its so small, which makes it a lovely hedge to place in little areas around your garden. It is a very slow growing species, sitting at 3-5cm per annum. Growing this slowly makes it perfect for border surroundings, or even putting in your vegetable gardens. This hedge can easily be kept at 30cm, making it an ideal alternative to Box (just smaller!), but its maximum height sits at 90cm.

Besides the lovely leaves, the Dwarf Box also boasts pale yellow flowers around Springtime, following on with pale green fruits in the Summer. Though both the flowers and fruits are pretty, the plant is generally known for being able to easily keep a formal shape.

The Buxus sempervirens ‰ۡÌÝÌáSuffruticosa,‰ۡó» loves to see the sun, but can also tolerate shade.

• Growth height: Slow (10-20cm per year)
• Ideal Height: 1.2m-2.5m
• Soil Type: Normal
• Exposure:̴Ì?Coastal, Exposed, Inland
• Aspect:̴Ì?Full shade
• Evergreen foliage? Yes

Trimming/Pruning of the Dwarf Box only twice a year- once in the beginning of June, and then again later in September. You must prune your hedge at the right time, otherwise you may end up damaging or losing new shoots that are trying to grow.

When should I plant Dwarf Box hedging?

Pot grown plants can be planted at any time of the year, as long as the soil is not frozen. Just ensure the plants get enough water, particularly throughout dry spells.

How far apart do you plant Dwarf Box plants?

If grouping your Dwarf Box plants, place plants between 2 and 3ft apart. If planting a row of individuals and wanting to create a low hedge, plant̴Ì?40-45cm apart.

How to plant Dwarf Box:

Dig a trench (which is preferred for Box hedging), that is twice as wide as the root ball, but the same depth. Begin by preparing the ground well, digging over the soil nicely and removing any weeds/stones/old roots. Mix in plenty of organic matter, and add a bit of bone meal into the soil, to get the very best out of your hedging.

Place the plants into the trench and backfill with the excess soil, pressing down lightly but firmly to secure the plants. Water well for the first year, thoroughly around 2-3 times per week, to help the roots establish nicely.