Introducing...
Box
Botanical name: Buxus
Box is usually grown as a clipped, formal plant or hedge, although there are many types that are ideal for naturalistic planting too. While box has been a traditional stalwart in gardens for centuries, it is now proving more difficult to grow well due to pests and disease marring its neat appearance.
Looks
Box has small glossy dark green leaves throughout the year, held on a woody framework of branches. It is often clipped into neat formal shapes, such as balls, cones or low hedges.
Likes
Box thrives in moist but well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. It is happy in containers as well as borders, in everything from full sun to dense shade. It copes well with regular trimming.
Dislikes
It will struggle in waterlogged soil or really dry conditions. Harsh weather can damage its glossy green foliage, but it should soon recover.
Did you know?
The leaves of box plants have a distinctive aroma that is strongest in hot weather – some people love the smell, others hate it!
Growing guide
How to grow box
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for box in your garden.
Box we recommend
Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa'
box 'Suffruticosa'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 1–1.5 metres
Buxus sempervirens 'Latifolia Maculata' (v)
box 'Latifolia Maculata'
- 1.5–2.5 metres
- 1.5–2.5 metres
Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa'
box 'Suffruticosa'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 1–1.5 metres
Buxus sempervirens 'Latifolia Maculata' (v)
box 'Latifolia Maculata'
- 1.5–2.5 metres
- 1.5–2.5 metres
Useful advice
Box blight
Box sucker
Box tree caterpillar
Box: problems
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.