How to Grow National Boxwood
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National Boxwood
Buxus microphylla 'National'
shrubNational Boxwood is a compact, dense evergreen shrub prized for ornamental hedging and landscaping. It features small, glossy dark green leaves and maintains a naturally rounded form, making it ideal for formal gardens and borders. This cultivar is known for its hardiness and disease resistance compared to other boxwood varieties.
When should you plant National Boxwood in your zone?
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Example National Boxwood timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant National Boxwood
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest National Boxwood
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; most reliable in zones 6-8
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Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung transplant with limited branching; soil settling and root development
Water thoroughly after planting; apply 2-3 inches of mulch; avoid fertilizing first year; prune lightly only to shape
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsNew shoots and foliage expansion; plant filling out and becoming bushier
Maintain consistent moisture; begin light shaping pruning in late spring or early summer; apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring
Active Growth
1-2 yearsRobust branching and dense canopy development; plant approaching desired size and shape
Prune in late spring and early summer to maintain form; avoid pruning after August to prevent tender new growth before winter; monitor for pests
Mature Form
Ongoing, 5+ yearsDense, rounded shrub at full ornamental size; glossy dark green foliage; slow growth rate
Prune annually in late spring to maintain hedge or desired shape; light fertilizing; monitor for boxwood blight and spider mites
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or miticide in early spring and fall; increase humidity; prune out heavily infested branches
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Hand-pick and destroy rolled leaves; apply spinosad or neem oil in late spring when larvae are active
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Remove affected leaves; apply systemic insecticide in spring; improve air circulation through pruning
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Prune out infected branches; improve air circulation; disinfect pruning tools; avoid wetting foliage; apply fungicide preventatively; National is relatively resistant
Uses
Hedging and topiary
HouseholdNational Boxwood is ideal for formal hedges, borders, and topiary due to its compact growth and dense foliage. Its slow growth rate makes it excellent for precision shaping and long-term formal garden designs. [source]
Dried foliage arrangements
CraftThe small, glossy leaves dry beautifully and retain their color, making them valuable for floral arrangements, wreaths, and decorative crafts. Dried boxwood foliage is long-lasting and adds texture to arrangements. [source]
Landscape screening and privacy
HouseholdWhen planted densely, National Boxwood creates attractive evergreen screens that provide year-round privacy while maintaining a refined aesthetic. The dense canopy effectively blocks views while looking elegant. [source]
Wildlife shelter and nesting
WildlifeDense boxwood shrubs provide protective shelter and nesting sites for birds and beneficial insects throughout the year. The evergreen nature ensures year-round cover for wildlife. [source]
Formal garden design
HouseholdNational Boxwood is a cornerstone plant for traditional and contemporary formal gardens, creating structured lines and contributing to sophisticated landscape architecture. Its predictable growth and refined appearance suit classical and modern formal designs. [source]
Harvest Tips
Boxwood is primarily an ornamental shrub, not harvested for food. For foliage cuttings (craft use): Select disease-free branches in late spring or early summer; cut 4-6 inch stems; use fresh in arrangements or dry by hanging upside down in a cool, dark location for 2-3 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 National Boxwood was developed and named by Gottfried Pausmann in New Jersey and introduced commercially in the 1960s; it is celebrated for being one of the hardiest and most disease-resistant boxwood cultivars available.
- 🌱 The genus Buxus has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, with boxwood hedges adorning European castles and manor houses since the Middle Ages; it remains a symbol of formality and tradition.
- 🌱 Boxwood wood is extremely dense and fine-grained, historically used for musical instruments, jewelry boxes, and fine woodworking; it is one of the hardest domestic hardwoods.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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