North Star® Boxwood

Buxus sempervirens 'Katerberg'

Proven Winners®

Compact North Star Boxwood Maintains Perfect Round Shape with Minimal Pruning Year-Round
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant
Showy White, Green Blooms in Late Spring
Excellent Privacy Screen or Hedge

$26¹⁴

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours) is best for maintaining a dense, tight habit, though it performs remarkably well in part shade. In hotter climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help prevent the foliage from bronzing during intense summer heat.
Soil: These boxwoods thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. If you have heavy clay, plant them in a slight mound or "high" to ensure the crown stays above the water line, preventing the roots from suffocating.

Watering Requirements

For the first two seasons, provide about an inch of water per week to help the root system reach deep into the soil. Once established, North Star® Boxwood is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during extreme heat can lead to "leaf cupping" or slow growth. Aim for deep soakings at the base of the plant rather than frequent light sprinkles to encourage a resilient root structure.

Pruning Tips

This variety naturally grows into a tidy globe, so you only need to prune if you want a formal hedge or a specific shape. Because it blooms on old wood, wait until after the spring growth flush has hardened off to trim, which prevents you from cutting off next year's potential. Think of pruning like a light haircut to maintain the "waistline" of the plant and to increase airflow through the center of the branches.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer or a specialized evergreen food in early spring before new growth begins. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. This late season "growth spurt" is easily damaged by winter temperatures, leading to unsightly brown tips in the spring.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 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

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

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, Disease resistant, Evergreen, Full Sun, Hedge/Screen, Low Maintenance, Non-invasive, Salt Tolerant, Shade Tolerant
Hardiness Zone	5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	2-3 ft
Width	3-4 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Bushy
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White, Green
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Boxwood
Botanical Name	Buxus sempervirens 'Katerberg'
Species	sempervirens
Cultivar	Katerberg
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

North Star™ Boxwood: The Perfect Year-Round Evergreen

Looking for a low-maintenance shrub that stays lush and green all year long? The Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star™ Boxwood PP#15998 (Buxus sempervirens 'Katerberg') is a compact, slow-growing broadleaf evergreen with a naturally round shape, making it a versatile choice for gardens, landscapes, and containers.

Its dense, glossy foliage provides structure and beauty to your outdoor spaces in every season! While many plants lose their luster in colder months, North Star™ Boxwood shines with its dense greenery, adding life and structure to your winter landscape.

Why Choose North Star™ Boxwood?

Evergreen Foliage: Glossy green leaves retain their vibrant color throughout the year, even in winter.
Compact Shape: Naturally rounded, this shrub requires minimal pruning to maintain its neat, symmetrical form.

Perfect for Small Spaces: Reaching only 2–3 feet in height and width, it fits beautifully in tight spots.
Multiple Uses: Use it for hedges, borders, container plantings, or as a standalone specimen.
Low Maintenance: Resistant to deer and adaptable to various light and soil conditions, North Star™ Boxwood thrives with little effort.
Heat & Cold Hardy: Thriving in colder growing zones of USDA growing zones 5 to 9.
Deer & Rabbit Resistant
Easy to Grow!

How to Use North Star™ Boxwood in Your Landscape

Some plants are so much a part of a garden culture that it's hard to imagine a landscape without them. Boxwood are shrubs like that! From the palace gardens of Versailles to the Victorian Painted Ladies in San Francisco, Boxwoods have been in the picture!

Formal Hedges: Plant in rows to create a tidy, evergreen border or define walkways. North Star® is perfect for the classic Boxwood hedge of English garden fame that so many gardeners crave!
Foundation Plantings: Add year-round greenery around the base of your home.
Container Gardening: Perfect for patios, porches, or entryways when planted in pots.
Accent Plant: Use as a focal point in garden beds or mixed borders.
Winter Landscaping: Pair with festive decor for seasonal charm.
Containers: Have some fun and pot up your North Star® in a fancy planter or container and train it into a topiary!

Proven Winners® ColorChoice® is a fine-textured shrub that keeps its naturally tidy, rounded appearance with or without pruning.

Boxwood Care & Maintenance

Planting:

Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
Ensure soil is well-drained; amend with organic matter if needed
Well-drained average to alkaline soil
Space plants 2–3 feet apart for hedges or group plantings.

Care:

Water regularly during establishment, then only during dry spells. Boxwood only needs supplemental moisture during drought and water before the winter sets in, as they need this moisture in their leaves to protect them against the drying winter winds.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
Prune or shear lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

North Star™ Boxwood is the go-to choice for gardeners seeking elegance and ease. Whether you're looking to frame your landscape with lush hedges or add year-long greenery to a small space, this dependable shrub has you covered.

Order your Proven Winners® ColorChoice® evergreen shrubs like North Star® Boxwood from Nature Hills Nursery today and enjoy its timeless beauty for years to come!

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Hardy

I purchased the North Star Boxwood due to its hardiness as I wanted a hedge that wouldn't winter burn. Happy so far.

Hi Danny,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star® Boxwood! We're delighted to hear that its hardiness has met your expectations and is standing up well against winter burn—it's wonderful to know it’s working as a reliable hedge for you.

If you’d like to keep it thriving through all seasons, feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can help promote healthy growth. Also, be sure to keep an eye on soil moisture, especially during drought conditions, to maintain those lush, vibrant leaves year-round. Should you want tips on trimming to encourage a fuller hedge or advice on pest prevention, don’t hesitate to reach out; we’re here to help!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Hardy

I purchased the North Star Boxwood due to its hardiness as I wanted a hedge that wouldn't winter burn. Happy so far.

Hi Danny,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star® Boxwood! We're thrilled to hear that it's meeting your expectations and standing strong against winter conditions. Its reputation as a hardy hedge really makes it a fantastic choice for gardeners who want year-round greenery without the worry of winter burn.

To keep your boxwood thriving through all seasons, we recommend pruning lightly in early spring to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Also, applying a layer of mulch around the base can help protect the roots from temperature fluctuations. If you ever notice any stress signs, we’re here to help troubleshoot!

Thanks again for choosing us for your landscaping needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with questions or updates on your garden’s progress!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Winter plant

My greatest pleasure from the North Star is just looking out the window and seeing green standing in the white snow!

Dear Star,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star® Boxwood! It’s heartwarming to hear how much joy you derive from seeing that vibrant green standing tall contrasted against the snowy winter landscape. The North Star is truly a resilient and beautiful boxwood, and it sounds like it’s brought a wonderful touch of nature’s beauty right to your window.

If you ever want to keep your North Star thriving through all seasons, remember to avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall to help it withstand the colder months. Mulching around the base during winter can also protect roots from freezing temperatures and maintain soil moisture. Should you have any questions on specific care or want tips for companion plantings to enhance your view year-round, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Winter plant

My greatest pleasure from the North Star is just looking out the window and seeing green standing in the white snow!

Hello Star,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star® Boxwood! We absolutely love hearing how your garden brings you joy, especially the sight of that beautiful green contrast against the winter snow. It’s truly one of nature’s simple, serene pleasures.

If you’re interested in keeping that vibrant evergreen looking its best all season, be sure to provide some winter protection during extreme cold snaps by applying a mulch layer around the base to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature. Also, occasional watering before the ground freezes can help keep it healthy throughout winter.

If you’d ever like tips on companion plants that thrive alongside your North Star® Boxwood, or advice on encouraging new growth come spring, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Pruning

I enjoy pruning my boxwoods into various shapes and the North Star boxwood is quite adaptable to pruning.

Dear Vern,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Proven Winners® ColorChoice® North Star® Boxwood! We're delighted to hear that you find it adaptable and enjoyable to shape through pruning. Boxwoods indeed have such versatile growth habits, making them perfect for creative gardening projects.

If you ever need tips on the best times for pruning or ways to encourage denser growth for even more sculpting options, feel free to reach out—we're happy to share expert advice or step-by-step guidance. Also, be sure to keep an eye on watering and feeding schedules, as maintaining healthy, well-nourished plants often strengthens their response to pruning.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Is North Star® Boxwood deer-resistant or rabbit-resistant?

North Star® Boxwood is both deer and rabbit resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas with wildlife pressure. This natural resistance means you won't need fencing or repellents to protect your investment. Plant it confidently in open landscapes where deer and rabbits are common.

Can North Star® Boxwood be grown in containers or pots?

North Star® Boxwood thrives in containers, reaching just 2-3 feet tall and wide. Its compact, naturally rounded shape makes it perfect for patios, porches, and entryways. Choose a well-draining pot and shop at Nature Hills for healthy specimens.

What is the best time to prune North Star® Boxwood?

The best time to prune North Star® Boxwood is late winter to early spring, before new growth begins. Since this variety naturally maintains its compact 2-3 foot rounded shape, it requires minimal pruning. Light shaping cuts work best to preserve its dense, glossy foliage.

How much sun or shade can North Star® Boxwood tolerate?

North Star® Boxwood adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade. This flexible shrub performs well in 4-6 hours of sunlight but tolerates shadier spots better than many boxwoods. For best foliage density, provide morning sun with afternoon protection in hot climates.

Is North Star® Boxwood cold-hardy for winter climates?

North Star® Boxwood is cold-hardy in USDA zones 5-9, thriving in colder climates while maintaining its glossy green foliage all winter. This compact evergreen actually shines during winter months when other plants lose their color. Shop at Nature Hills for reliable winter interest in your landscape.

What is the growth rate of North Star® Boxwood?

North Star® Boxwood is a slow-growing shrub that reaches 2-3 feet in both height and width. Its compact, naturally rounded form requires minimal pruning to maintain its neat shape. This makes it ideal for small spaces and low-maintenance landscapes.

North Star® Boxwood

Buxus sempervirens 'Katerberg'