ENGLISH BOX

Please click on your desired pot size for a more accurate image of the product you will receive.

 

English Box (English Buxus), or Buxus Sempervirens, is a slow growing evergreen shrub that is one of the most popular when it comes to formal hedging. It has glossy, dark green foliage with lighter green new growth and a dense growing habit. English Box is a landscaper favourite due to its versatility. It is most often used for hedging, topiary and standards.

Compared to Japanese Box, English Box has slightly larger, more elliptical shaped leaves that are a darker green. It is also a slower grower.

 

CARE AND GROWTH:

English Box thrives in partial to full sun. While it can tolerate some shade, it tends to perform best in locations with ample sunlight. A well-draining soil is essential for the health of English Box. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy and sandy soils, but prefers soil that is not waterlogged. Regular watering, especially during the establishment and dry periods is essential. However, it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions as this can lead to root rot.

English Box responds well to shaping and can be pruned into formal hedges or more intricate topiary designs. Prune in Spring to maintain shape and desired height.

A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in spring can help promote healthy growth. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as boxwood can be sensitive to excessive nutrients.

English Box is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, such as boxwood blight and boxwood leafminer. Regular monitoring and prompt action if any issues arise are important for maintaining the plant’s health.

Note: If your English Box start turning a coppery orange colour during Winter, this is perfectly normal. It just means they will require a feed in early Spring and they will green up in no time! This usually only happens when plants are still young. A feed before the cold weather can help prevent this.

 

PLANTING IDEAS:

Hedge: English Box is a popular choice for formal hedges due to its dense foliage and ability to withstand regular pruning. It can create a classic and elegant look in garden designs.

Topiary: The slow growth and dense foliage make English Box suitable for creating intricate topiary designs, adding a formal and structured element to gardens.

Pots/Containers: English Box can be grown in containers, making it suitable for patios, balconies, or small gardens.

Borders and Edging: It can be used as a border or edging plant in garden beds, providing a neat and tidy appearance.

 

SPACING:

Recommended spacing will depend on your intended use but for hedging we suggest the following;

For smaller pot sizes (140mm and 200mm) we recommend 3-4 plants per metre and for larger pot sizes (300mm and 400mm), 2-3 plants per metre. This is a guide only.

For accent planting, every 1-1.5m is ideal.

 

POT SIZES:

We stock English Box in most pot sizes from 140mm all the way up to advanced 400mm so there’s sure to be one perfect for you!

While we are constantly growing new stock, some pot sizes will not always be available. If you can’t find the size you’re looking for, feel free to reach out via email and we can update you on when the next batch is expected.

 

OTHER VARIETIES:

English Box is part of the Buxus family of plants, one of the most recognised families in the plant world. There are several Buxus varieties that differ slightly in size as well ad foliage shape and colour. If you’re looking for a lighter green option, the Japanese Box is a great choice. If you’re after a dwarf Buxus, Korean Box is the way to go. If you’re after a variety we don’t have online, email us and we can try and source it for you!

 

SUMMARY:

Position: Full sun to part shade
Max Height: 1.5m
Max Width: 1.5m

Spacing for hedging: Every 25-40cm depending on pot size
Type: Hedge, Topiary, Border, Containers

Feed: Slow-release fertiliser

Pruning: Once to twice a year in warmer months depending on desired height