Buxus 'Winter Gem' is a compact rounded boxwood cultivar prized for its glossy evergreen foliage and year round structure. With good cold hardiness and a natural mounding form it is ideal for low hedges, foundation plantings, and formal garden outlines.
Height & Spread: 2 - 3 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Spring (inconspicuous)
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
Watering Needs: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture, especially in heat
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a hybrid developed from Asian boxwood species and is not native to North America.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Beneficial Insects
- Provides evergreen cover for overwintering insects such as ladybugs and predatory beetles.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart when planting in groups or for low hedge formation.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for formal edges, low borders, symmetrical garden designs, and container topiary. Its compact growth habit and tolerance for pruning make it versatile in traditional and modern landscapes.
Companion Plants
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime' - Adds seasonal color and soft contrast with boxwood’s evergreen form.
- Liriope muscari 'Lilyturf' - Offers grassy texture and purple flower spikes beneath or beside boxwoods.
- Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil' - Adds vertical structure behind or beside mounded boxwoods for a clean architectural pairing.
- Heuchera 'Obsidian' - Provides rich dark foliage for striking foliage contrast in shade borders.
- Geranium Rozanne - Offers spreading habit and long blooming color near boxwood edges.