shrub

Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood

Buxus 'Wilson'

The Story

Plant Bio

Buxus microphylla var. koreana is a slow-growing, dense, multi-branched evergreen shrub known for its small, oval leaves and tolerance for shearing. It is one of the hardiest boxwood species.

'Wilson', commonly sold as Wintergreen, is prized for its excellent cold hardiness and its ability to retain its rich green foliage color throughout winter, unlike many other boxwoods that bronze.

Uses & Benefits:

Its fine texture, dense habit, and evergreen nature make it a superb choice for creating formal garden structure, from low hedges and parterres to elegant topiaries. It provides year-round visual interest and a classic, tidy appearance.

Excellent for defining garden spaces, edging walkways and beds, and creating 'bones' in a landscape design. Its dense structure can act as a low screen or barrier, guiding foot traffic or hiding foundations.

While not a major wildlife plant, its dense branches provide important shelter and cover for small birds and other animals, especially during winter months. The small flowers attract early season pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Korea

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested, can cause stomach upset.

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with at least 4 hours of sun and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
Amend heavy clay soil with compost to improve drainage.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage and good air circulation to prevent common boxwood blight and root rot issues.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
Mulch to conserve water and regulate soil temperature.
Test soil pH and amend if necessary for optimal health.
Prune after the first flush of spring growth.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or poorly drained soil.
Do not allow mulch to touch the stems, which can cause rot.
Do not prune late in the season, as this can encourage tender new growth.
Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic formal low hedgeStructural foundation plantingElegant container and topiary specimen

Companion Plants

Hydrangea macrophylla Hosta Heuchera Astilbe Ilex crenata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood questions

What zones can Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood grow in?

Wilson Wintergreen 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 Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood deer resistant?

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

When does Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood bloom?

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

Does Wilson Wintergreen Boxwood need full sun?

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