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Winter Gem Boxwood

Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Winter Gem'

Nature Hills Nursery
$9833
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: This boxwood thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4 to 6 hours of light daily. While it handles shade better than many shrubs, more sun results in a denser growth habit and better winter color retention.
  • Soil: Plant in well-drained soil to avoid "wet feet," which can lead to root rot. If you have heavy clay, mix in some organic compost and plant the shrub slightly above the soil line to improve drainage.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water your boxwood twice a week to help the root system reach deep into the ground. Established plants are quite drought-tolerant, but they still need a deep soaking during long dry spells to prevent the foliage from turning a stressed orange color. Consistent moisture is especially important in late fall so the plant is hydrated before the ground freezes for winter.

Pruning Tips

The best time to prune is in late spring after the first flush of new growth has hardened off. Think of pruning like a haircut that encourages the plant to fill in, creating that classic tidy appearance. You should also reach inside the shrub and clip out a few small branches every year to let air and light reach the center, which keeps the interior leaves from dying off.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support the lush green growth boxwoods are known for. Avoid fertilizing after mid-summer because this can trigger tender new growth that will get damaged by the first frost. High nitrogen spikes late in the season act like a caffeine boost when the plant should be slowing down to prepare for winter dormancy.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4 Week of March 30th
Zone 5 Week of March 16th
Zone 6 Week of March 2nd
Zone 7-12 Week of February 23rd


Shipping Rates

Ships in 3-4 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

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Winter Gem Boxwood: Year-Round Elegance in Every Landscape

Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Winter Gem') is a must-have for any garden design. This compact, broadleaf evergreen shrub offers year-round visual appeal with its glossy, rich green foliage that turns a bronze hue in winter.

Ideal for hedges, borders, and container plantings, Winter Gem is as versatile as it is stunning. Its hardy, low-maintenance nature ensures it thrives in a variety of landscapes, making it a favorite for gardeners everywhere!

For a tidy landscape, there is nothing – and we mean nothing – like the formal charm of the Boxwood. You can find space for this petite broad-leaved evergreen shrub all around your yard. It grows well in full sun or part shade.

Why Choose Winter Gem Boxwood?

  • Year-Round Color: Vibrant broadleaf evergreen foliage in summer transitions to a warm, bronze tint in winter.
  • Compact Growth: Reaches 2–4 feet tall and wide, perfect for smaller spaces or neat hedging.
  • Versatile Design: Ideal for formal hedges, mixed borders, foundation plantings, or topiaries.
  • Low Maintenance: Adaptable, drought-tolerant once established, Boxwoods are easy to care for.
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in USDA Zones 5–9, making it a durable choice for many climates.

Landscaping Ideas for Winter Gem Boxwood

Shear them or leave them to grow more naturally. You'll grow to love that softer look! They’ll stay small naturally. This easy plant is a designer’s secret weapon. It’s smart and stylish and makes any partner plant look more like itself.

  • Formal Hedges: Create neat, classic boundaries along walkways or property lines.
  • Foundation Plantings: Frame your home with evergreen beauty and structure.
  • Mixed Borders: Winter Gem is tidy enough to not need pruning! Pair with colorful perennials or seasonal blooms for added depth.
  • Topiaries: Shape into stunning spheres or geometric forms for formal gardens.
  • Containers: Use Boxwood in planters to enhance patios, balconies, or entryways year-round.

Boxwood Planting & Care

Winter Gem is an excellent Boxwood. It’s not fussy about soils and flourishes with at least 4 hours of sun a day. It will take full sun all day without a care in the world. In the extreme heat of Zone 9, it can be wise to give afternoon shade where possible.

Planting Tips

  • Location: Choose a spot with partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of sunlight daily).
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
  • Spacing: Space plants 2–3 feet apart for a dense hedge or border.

Care Instructions

  • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the first growing season; water deeply in dry periods.
  • Mulching: Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  • Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
  • Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring for lush foliage.

Order Your Winter Gem Boxwood Today!

Upgrade your landscape with the timeless elegance of Winter Gem Boxwood. Its year-round appeal, easy-care nature, and versatile design make it a top choice for gardeners of all levels. Don’t wait—bring this enduring beauty to your garden now! Nature Hills Online Plant Nursery will ship your order right to your doorstep!

Winter Gem Boxwood FAQs

Does Winter Gem Boxwood require frequent pruning?
No, Winter Gem maintains a compact form and only needs light pruning in late winter or early spring to keep its shape.

Can Winter Gem grow in full shade?
While it tolerates some shade, Winter Gem performs best with at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily.

How does Winter Gem handle winter weather?
This variety is cold-hardy and its foliage develops a bronze hue during winter, adding seasonal interest.

Is Winter Gem Boxwood deer-resistant?
Yes, Boxwood is known for being deer-resistant, making it a reliable choice in areas with deer pressure. However, no plant is deer-proof, so you can treat your shrubs with deer spray from day one when deer pressure is high and local food sources are lean.

Can Winter Gem be grown in containers?
Absolutely! Winter Gem thrives in pots, provided they have good drainage and are watered consistently.

Growing Zones 5-9

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