Buxus sempervirens Dee Runk (Boxwood)

Naturally architectural, Buxus sempervirens 'Dee Runk' (Boxwood) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub of elegant columnar habit with a soft and lush foliage of ovate, lustrous leaves. Its deep green foliage has shown good resistance to boxwood blight. Growing at a fast to medium rate, 3-6 in. per year (7-15 cm), this upright Boxwood is a real exclamation point in the garden, providing color year-round, as well as form, texture and contrast. Requiring little to no pruning, it is perfect as a specimen or for a narrow hedge. Great for small gardens.

• Typically grows up to 7-8 ft. tall (210-240 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Thrives in part shade in evenly moist, well-drained soils. While full shade is tolerated, the plant will not be as vigorous and its foliage not as dense. Full sun exposure may scorch the foliage. Boxwood can grow in a variety of soils as long as there is not too much sand or too much clay. Mulch should be added to reduce water evaporation and maintain moisture. While drought tolerant, Boxwood should always be watered during drought periods.
• Best sited in locations sheltered from strong winds, with, if possible, some protection from the full winter sun.
• Very versatile, this plant is perfect for beds, borders, containers, formal gardens, Mediterranean gardens, topiary or foundation plantings.
• Keep an eye out for box sucker, mussel scale, box red spider mite, leaf spot and box blight. Deer and rabbit resistant!
• This plant grows slowly, so shear if desired. Pruning should occur after the last spring frost date, to avoid the new growth to be damaged or killed. Promote air circulation via removal of dead branches or thinning. Avoid cultivating around this plant because it has shallow roots.
• Fall is the best time for boxwood planting and mulching, while winter is the ideal time for pruning, thinning, and protection.
• Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.