Buxus  'Green Gem'
shrub

Green Gem Boxwood

Buxus 'Green Gem'

$22.19
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Boxwoods are dense, evergreen shrubs, highly valued in formal garden design for their small leaves and tolerance of heavy shearing into hedges and topiary. 'Green Gem' is a slow-growing, globe-shaped hybrid boxwood known for its excellent hardiness and its ability to retain its rich green foliage color through cold winters without bronzing.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental Uses'Green Gem' offers the classic, fine-textured, deep green foliage that makes boxwood a staple of formal gardens. Its naturally rounded, compact shape provides year-round structure and form. The light green new growth in spring adds a fresh contrast to the older, darker leaves.
Practical UsesThis shrub is perfect for creating low, formal hedges, edging pathways and parterres, or for use in foundation plantings. Its slow growth rate means it requires infrequent pruning to maintain its shape. It is also an excellent choice for growing in containers to create formal accents on patios or balconies.
Ecological BenefitsWhile not a major wildlife plant, the small, fragrant spring flowers do attract bees and other small pollinators. The dense evergreen structure provides important year-round shelter for small birds, protecting them from predators and harsh weather.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$22.19

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a site with well-drained soil and protection from harsh winter winds.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
  3. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  4. Ensure the top of the root ball is slightly above the surrounding soil level.
  5. Backfill with soil, firming gently around the roots.
  6. Water deeply and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch over the root zone.

Pro Tip

Apply a fresh layer of mulch annually to keep the shallow roots cool and moist, but never pile it against the stems.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide good air circulation to minimize disease risk.
  • Water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry.
  • Prune with sharp, clean tools to avoid tearing stems.
  • Protect from winter sun and wind in colder zones to prevent desiccation.

Don't

  • Do not plant in heavy, wet, or poorly drained soil.
  • Avoid planting too deep; this is a common cause of boxwood failure.
  • Don't allow the plant to dry out completely, especially in containers.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which can promote disease.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic low formal hedgeNeat foundation plantingElegant container specimen

Companion Plants

Hydrangea macrophylla Hosta plantaginea Astilbe arendsii Paeonia lactiflora Rosa (shrub roses)

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Green Gem Boxwood questions

What zones can Green Gem Boxwood grow in?

Green Gem Boxwood is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Green Gem Boxwood deer resistant?

Yes — Green Gem Boxwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Green Gem Boxwood bloom?

Green Gem Boxwood typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Green Gem Boxwood need full sun?

Green Gem Boxwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Green Gem Boxwood with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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