Green Gem Boxwood

Name: Green Gem Boxwood
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 22980E
Price: 22.19 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.55 (20 reviews)

Buxus x 'Green Gem'

Naturally Forms Perfect Spheres Without Pruning - Year-Round Emerald Green
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Grows 3 ft Tall and Wide
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Showy White, Green Blooms in Late Spring

$22¹⁹

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Plant Size

Quart Container #2 Container #1 Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Attracts pollinators, Cold hardy, Compact/Dwarf, Container Friendly, Deer-resistant, Evergreen, Full Sun, Hedge/Screen, Low Maintenance, Non-invasive, Rabbit Resistant, Shade Tolerant
Hardiness Zone	5a to 9b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	3 ft
Width	3 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White, Green
Foliage Color	Green
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets, Toxic to horses
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Boxwood
Botanical Name	Buxus x 'Green Gem'
Cultivar	Green Gem
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Aim for a spot that receives 5-6 hours of sun, ideally morning sun, and dappled shade in the afternoon. While 'Green Gem' can handle full sun, the intense summer rays or winter exposure can cause the foliage to bronze, shifting its deep green color.
Soil: The one essential requirement is excellent drainage; Boxwood roots hate "wet feet" and will quickly succumb to root rot in soggy conditions. If you have heavy clay, incorporate plenty of coarse organic matter, like compost, or plant on a slight berm to ensure water sheds away quickly.

Watering Requirements

For the first year or two, your Boxwood needs consistent moisture to establish its shallow root system, so water deeply once a week, especially in hot, dry weather. Once it is established, 'Green Gem' is quite drought tolerant and will only require supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Inconsistent watering, however, will stress the plant, leading to yellowing leaves and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Pruning Tips

Boxwood is grown for its foliage and produces growth on new wood. The best long-term care involves thinning, which means reaching inside the shrub and snipping small branches to open up the canopy. Perform this in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Thinning is essential because it allows sunlight and air to penetrate the interior, preventing the fungal issues that thrive in dense, damp foliage and ensuring a healthy, full shrub.

Fertilizer Needs

'Green Gem' is not a heavy feeder, so a light application of a slow-release, balanced granular fertilizer (like a 10-10-10) in early spring is usually all it needs to support its new foliage. What to avoid: Do not feed your Boxwood after mid-July. Fertilizing too late in the season encourages a soft flush of new growth that will not have time to harden off before fall frosts, resulting in tender tip burn and damage.

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Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.

All is growing as advertised

All is growing as advertised...

Green Gem is a reliable grower once it settles in, so it's good to hear yours is doing exactly what it should. Thanks for the update, Mary. If you ever want to encourage a bit denser branching, a light trim in late spring after the new growth hardens off works well with this one.

arrived in good healthy condition

packaged very well, arrived in good condition, looked very healthy and now growing in the ground.

Hearing that it arrived healthy and is already in the ground is exactly what we like to see. Green Gem is a great choice, a tough little boxwood that settles in well once it gets its roots established. Thanks for sharing, Nancy.

They were way smaller than I thought they would be but they were in great condition and I know

They were way smaller than I thought they would be but they were in great condition and I know they will grow.

My plants arrived beautiful. Healthy

My plants arrived beautiful. Healthy plants that I am sure will grow well. Looking forward to watching them.

Hi,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that your plants arrived healthy and beautiful. It’s always our goal to provide the best quality so customers like you can look forward to a thriving garden. If you ever need any tips or guidance as you watch your plants grow, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help every step of the way.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Love the variety and color

Love the variety and color

Hi,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that you love the variety and color available through our selection. We’re passionate about offering a diverse array of plants to help brighten and personalize every garden space.

If you ever want recommendations to complement your current choices or tips on care to keep those colors vibrant, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to help your garden thrive in every season!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Love the variety and color

Love the variety and color

Hi Courtney,

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! We're delighted to hear that you love the variety and color options available – we strive to offer a wide selection to inspire every gardener’s unique vision. If you ever need tips on planting or maintaining your beautiful new additions, feel free to reach out. We're here to help your garden thrive every step of the way.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

My plants arrived beautiful. Healthy

My plants arrived beautiful. Healthy plants that I am sure will grow well. Looking forward to watching them.

Dear Joan,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your plants arrived healthy and beautiful, and we share your excitement in watching them flourish. To help you get the best start, don’t hesitate to check out our detailed plant care guides available on NatureHills.com, or reach out if you ever have questions along the way. Your growing garden means a lot to us, and we’re always here to support you.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Good bushes

The boxwoods arrived healthy, on schedule and well packed.

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with our boxwoods! We're delighted to hear they arrived healthy, on time, and well packaged—that’s always our goal to ensure your plants reach you ready to thrive.

If you ever have questions on how to care for your boxwoods or want tips on pruning and maintenance to keep them looking their best, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're happy to provide resources or help tailor advice to suit your garden’s unique conditions.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Good bushes

The boxwoods arrived healthy, on schedule and well packed.

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with our boxwoods! We’re delighted to hear that your plants arrived healthy, on schedule, and well packed—that’s exactly the standard we strive to uphold.

As your boxwoods settle in, we recommend checking out our care guide on pruning and watering boxwoods on NatureHills.com to ensure they thrive beautifully in your garden. If you ever have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Difficult choice

There's so many different boxwoods to choose from. I love the classic, glossy green leaves & that they need little pruning. I wanted something along my walkway, kind of like one of the pictures, so I got the green gem. Mine seem a bit smaller, maybe they'll grow more.

Hi Fred,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us! We completely understand how overwhelming it can be to choose among the many beautiful boxwoods out there. The Green Gem is such a fantastic choice—it really is loved for those classic glossy green leaves and its low-maintenance nature.

It’s quite normal for your plants to appear smaller at first; with time and proper care, they typically fill out beautifully and create that charming walkway appeal just like our photos. To help your Green Gem thrive, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and gets some morning sun with afternoon shade, which it prefers. Regular watering in the early growing stages will often result in faster, fuller growth too.

If you’d like, we’re always here to provide personalized care tips or help with any questions along the way. Your new Green Gems are sure to brighten your walkway and garden before long!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Difficult choice

Hi Fred,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts about the Green Gem Boxwood! We totally understand how overwhelming it can be with so many lovely boxwood varieties to choose from. You made a great choice—Green Gem's glossy deep green leaves and low-maintenance nature make it a perfect, classic addition along your walkway.

It’s wonderful that you’re already seeing your plants settling in. Green Gems typically start out a bit smaller but do enjoy steady growth especially in their first couple of years with the right care. To help yours flourish, make sure they get plenty of sunlight (they thrive in full to part sun) and well-draining soil. Also, regular but moderate watering—keeping soil moist, not soggy—helps establish strong roots. And since pruning needs are minimal, any shaping done in late winter or early spring can keep them looking tidy.

If you ever want ideas on companion plants or tips on seasonal care for your boxwoods, don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our blog resources for step-by-step advice.

Thanks again for trusting us with your garden — we appreciate you and hope your walkway soon bursts with that classic Green Gem charm!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Green Border

I bought the 2 gallon sizes. They arrived well packaged & looking good. I wanted something along a bed in front of my garage that wouldn't be overwhelming. They're slow to grow but that area doesn't get a lot if sun. Very happy with my purchase.

Hi Cameron,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Green Gem Boxwood! We’re delighted to hear they arrived safely and look great in their new home by your garage. It’s wonderful that you found these shrubs to be a good match for the spot—slow growth can actually be a plus in shaded or low-sun areas, allowing them to establish steady roots without overwhelming the space.

Since your planting area doesn’t get much sun, you might consider occasional feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for evergreens, which can encourage healthy growth even in less-than-ideal light conditions. Also, making sure the soil has good drainage will help your boxwoods thrive long-term.

If you ever want tips on pruning or winter care for your boxwoods, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help your garden flourish!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Green Border

Hi Cameron,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Green Gem Boxwood! We're delighted to hear they arrived safely and that you’re happy with your purchase. You’re right to expect slow growth with limited sunlight—the Green Gem thrives best in part to full sun, so slower development in shadier spots is natural. To support your boxwoods, consider mulching around the base to retain moisture and keeping the soil well-drained but consistently moist. Occasionally trimming can also encourage fuller growth over time.

If you ever want tips on maximizing growth or plant care for less sunny areas, feel free to reach out—we’re always here to help your garden flourish.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Small evergreen

I saw these plants planted in a circle around a parking circle in a parking lot and they looked really neat. I am waiting for mine to get big enough to create the ball look.

Hello Shorty,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Green Gem Boxwood! We’re delighted to hear that you were inspired by those neat, circular plantings—you've embarked on a wonderful journey by choosing a variety known for its dense, evergreen foliage and elegant form. As you wait for your boxwoods to mature and develop that signature “ball” shape, be sure to give them consistent watering and consider light pruning once they’ve grown a bit fuller. This will help encourage the rounded look you’re envisioning.

If you’d like, we also have helpful trimming guides on our website that can walk you through shaping and maintenance to get the best results. As your boxwoods grow, patience coupled with care will definitely pay off beautifully!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Small evergreen

I saw these plants planted in a circle around a parking circle in a parking lot and they looked really neat. I am waiting for mine to get big enough to create the ball look.

Hello Shorty,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Green Gem Boxwood! It’s wonderful to hear that you’ve been inspired by how they look in the parking circle—that neat, uniform shape is definitely why they’re such a popular choice for creating beautiful, structured plantings.

As you wait for your plants to grow and fill out that classic 'ball' shape, here are a few tips to help promote their healthy, compact growth: regular pruning will encourage fuller branching and maintain the rounded form, and consistent watering—especially while they’re getting established—helps keep your boxwoods vibrant. You might also consider a light application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring to support their development.

If you’d like some inspiration or guidance along the way, feel free to explore our resources section online, or reach out anytime. We’re always here to support you in achieving that standout circle you admired!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Small plant

The green gem will certainly not overwhelm a landscape but it will brighten it up Mine are easy to care for and being evergreen brightens my yard.

Hello Roamer,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Green Gem Boxwood! We’re delighted to hear that these little evergreens bring a touch of brightness to your landscape without overwhelming it—it sounds like they’re a perfect fit for your yard. It’s wonderful that you find them easy to care for; boxwoods are truly reliable plants that offer year-round charm.

If you ever want tips on pruning or maintaining the shape and health of your Green Gem Boxwoods, feel free to reach out. Light nurturing can keep them looking their best throughout the seasons! Meanwhile, don’t hesitate to explore our online resource center for detailed care guides to help your garden flourish.

Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback. We’re rooting for your garden’s continued success!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Small plant

The green gem will certainly not overwhelm a landscape but it will brighten it up Mine are easy to care for and being evergreen brightens my yard.

Dear Roamer,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Green Gem Boxwood! We're delighted to hear that its modest size brightens up your yard and that it’s been easy for you to care for. Evergreens like the Green Gem truly add a lovely year-round color and charm to any landscape.

If you ever want to maximize its impact, gentle shaping or pairing with complementary plants can create lovely focal points without overwhelming the space. And don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like tips on pruning or companion plant suggestions—our team is always happy to help!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Small plant

Ladys Mantle are very nice for a short groundcover for a shady area like mine.

great formal looking border

My Green Gems make a great formal looking border around a natural area in my front yard. Very happy with the sizes I received from Nature Hills. They were packed well & in great shape. Will definitely be buying again.

Hi Dig' em,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Green Gem Boxwoods! We’re delighted to hear they’re creating such a lovely, formal border for your front yard and that the sizes and packaging met your expectations. It’s always a joy to know our plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive in their new home.

If you’re looking for tips to keep your Green Gems looking their best, remember they appreciate well-drained soil and regular pruning to maintain that neat, structured look. Also, consistent watering during dry spells can really help keep them vibrant.

We’re excited to be part of your gardening journey and look forward to helping you select more beautiful plants in the future!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

great formal looking border

Dear Dig' E.,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with our Green Gem Boxwoods! We’re delighted to hear they’ve created such a beautiful and formal border for your front yard. It’s always our goal to provide healthy plants in great condition, so your praise for our packaging and plant sizes truly means a lot to us.

If you’re interested in keeping your boxwoods looking their best, be sure to mulch around the roots to retain moisture and prune them lightly to maintain their formal shape. Feel free to check out our planting and care guides anytime for more tips!

We look forward to helping you grow your garden even more in the future.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Green Gem Boxwood tolerate full sun, partial shade, or full shade?

Green Gem Boxwood thrives in partial to full sun, needing 4-6 hours of daily sunlight in USDA zones 4-9. In hot climates, choose spots with morning sun and afternoon shade for best results.

Can Green Gem Boxwood be grown in containers year-round?

Yes, Green Gem Boxwood thrives in containers year-round in zones 4-9, staying compact at 2-3 feet. Choose a pot at least 18 inches wide and protect from extreme winter winds. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy specimens that establish beautifully in containers.

How do I protect Green Gem Boxwood from winter burn or cold damage?

Green Gem Boxwood naturally handles winter cold in zones 4-9 without protection. In exposed locations, apply 2-3 inches of mulch around the base and provide afternoon shade during winter months to prevent desiccation from cold, drying winds.

What is the growth rate of Green Gem Boxwood?

Green Gem Boxwood is slower growing than other boxwoods, reaching its full 2-3 feet size in 5-7 years. This compact shrub naturally maintains its round shape without frequent pruning. Plant in spring for best establishment before summer heat arrives.

When is the best time to prune Green Gem Boxwood?

Green Gem Boxwood needs minimal pruning since it naturally maintains its perfect round shape. Light shaping in late spring is all that's required to keep it tidy. Focus on removing any damaged branches rather than heavy pruning. Shop Green Gem Boxwood at naturehills.com.

Does Green Gem Boxwood come with any warranty or guarantee from the nursery?

Green Gem Boxwood typically comes with a one-year warranty covering plants that fail to establish when planted and cared for properly. Most nurseries guarantee the plant will arrive healthy and true to variety. Plant in spring for best establishment in zones 4-9, and follow proper care guidelines to ensure warranty coverage.

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Green Gem Boxwood

Buxus x 'Green Gem'

What makes Green Gem Boxwood special?

What Growing Conditions Does It Need?

How Do I Plant and Care for Green Gem Boxwood?

What Are the Key Benefits?