Buxus Sempervirens Bare Root and Rootballed

Buxus sempervirens, commonly known as Common Box or English Box, is one of the most versatile and historic evergreen shrubs in British gardening. Treasured for centuries in formal gardens, parterres, and topiary, this quintessentially English plant brings structure, elegance, and year-round interest to gardens of every style and size. Its dense, small-leaved foliage and slow, compact growth make it the perfect choice for clipped hedging, topiary shapes, edging borders, or simply as a handsome evergreen shrub in its own right.

Key Features

Box is celebrated for its small, glossy, dark green leaves that remain attractive throughout all four seasons, providing valuable evergreen structure when many other plants have died back. The foliage is naturally dense and responds exceptionally well to clipping, maintaining crisp edges and defined shapes beautifully. In spring, tiny cream-coloured flowers appear, which are subtly fragrant and attract early pollinators, though they're barely noticeable and certainly not the plant's main attraction. The slow, steady growth habit means box requires less frequent trimming than faster-growing hedging plants, and its longevity is legendary—many box hedges in historic gardens are several centuries old.

Growing Conditions

Buxus sempervirens is remarkably adaptable and will thrive in most garden situations throughout the United Kingdom. It performs well in both full sun and partial shade, though it may scorch in intense sun combined with dry soil. In deeper shade, growth will be slower but still acceptable. Box isn't particularly fussy about soil type and will grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils, though it prefers reasonably fertile, well-drained conditions with adequate moisture retention. It tolerates alkaline soils particularly well, making it ideal for chalky gardens. Fully hardy throughout Britain, it withstands frost, cold winds, and urban pollution with ease, though it appreciates shelter from harsh, drying winter winds.

Size and Growth

One of box's greatest virtues is its slow, controlled growth habit. Left unpruned, Common Box typically reaches 3 to 5 metres in height over many years, with a similar spread, forming a dense, rounded shrub. However, it's rarely grown to full size—its true value lies in its response to clipping. For low edging, maintain plants at 20-30 centimetres tall; for dwarf hedging, 30-50 centimetres is typical; whilst taller hedges can be kept at any height from 60 centimetres to 2 metres or more. Growth is steady at approximately 10-15 centimetres per year, making it manageable and predictable. Bare root plants establish well and will begin putting on steady growth once settled in their new position.

Planting Your Bare Root Box

Plant bare root Buxus sempervirens between November and March, during the dormant season. Upon arrival, unpack plants promptly and soak the roots in a bucket of water for 2-4 hours to rehydrate them thoroughly. For individual plants or hedging, dig planting holes or a trench approximately twice the width of the root system and deep enough that plants sit at the same depth they were previously growing—you should see a soil mark on the stem as a guide.

For hedging, space plants 20-30 centimetres apart for a dense, quickly established hedge, or 30-40 centimetres for economy. For low edging, closer spacing of 15-20 centimetres creates a solid line more quickly. Mix well-rotted compost or manure into the excavated soil to improve fertility and structure. Position plants, spread roots naturally, and backfill with the improved soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting, even in wet weather, to settle soil around the roots and ensure good contact.

Care and Maintenance

Once established, box is relatively low-maintenance, though it does appreciate consistent care for best results. During the first growing season, water regularly during dry spells to encourage a strong root system—box dislikes drought, particularly when young. Even established plants benefit from watering during prolonged dry periods, especially those in containers or against walls. Feed annually in early spring with a balanced fertiliser or a top-dressing of well-rotted compost or manure, worked gently into the soil surface. A mulch of bark chips, garden compost, or well-rotted manure helps retain moisture and suppress weeds whilst gradually improving soil structure; apply a 5-8 centimetre layer but keep it clear of the stems to prevent rot.

Box benefits from good air circulation, so avoid overcrowding with other plants. Clear fallen leaves from the centre of plants in autumn, as trapped debris can encourage fungal problems. In exposed positions or during harsh winters, plants may benefit from temporary horticultural fleece protection to prevent wind scorch.

Clipping and Shaping

Regular clipping maintains box's dense habit and defined shape. For formal hedging and topiary, clip two to three times during the growing season—typically in late spring (May), mid-summer (July), and early autumn (September). For informal shapes or less formal hedging, once or twice annually is sufficient. Always use sharp shears or hedge trimmers to ensure clean cuts that heal quickly. The best time to clip is during dry, overcast weather—avoid clipping in full sun or when rain is forecast, as wet cuts are more susceptible to disease.

When shaping hedges, use a taut string line as a guide to ensure straight, level results. For crisp edges, angle hedge sides slightly inward toward the top, creating a gentle 'A' shape that allows light to reach the base and prevents the bottom becoming bare. Remove clippings promptly, as they can harbour disease if left lying on plants. Young plants benefit from light trimming even before they reach their desired size, as this encourages dense, bushy growth.

Uses in the Garden

Box is extraordinarily versatile in garden design. Its traditional use is for formal low hedging in parterre gardens, knot gardens, and formal borders, where its crisp edges create structured elegance. Use it to edge vegetable beds in potagers, creating productive beauty. As dwarf hedging, it provides structure in herbaceous borders and creates "rooms" within larger gardens. Box excels as topiary—balls, cones, spirals, and even intricate animal shapes are all achievable with patience. In containers, clipped box provides year-round structure for entrances, patios, and balconies. It's equally at home in cottage gardens, formal schemes, and contemporary minimalist designs.

Topiary Shapes

For beginners, simple shapes like balls, cones, and cubes are most achievable. Start with young, bushy plants and clip regularly to the desired outline, working gradually toward the final shape. Wire frames can guide more complex shapes. Patience is essential—a well-formed box ball of 40 centimetres diameter takes 4-5 years to achieve from a small plant, but the results are worth the wait.

Box Blight Awareness

Box blight (Cylindrocladium buxicola and Volutella buxi) has become increasingly prevalent in recent years and requires awareness, though it shouldn't deter you from growing this wonderful plant. The disease causes brown patches, leaf drop, and black streaks on stems. Prevention is key: ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, water at the base in mornings, clear fallen leaves and debris, and disinfect tools between plants. Clip during dry weather and remove clippings promptly. If blight appears, remove and destroy affected material (don't compost it), and consider fungicidal treatments available for box blight.

Many gardeners successfully grow box without encountering blight, particularly in areas with good air movement and where hygiene practices are followed. Some varieties show better resistance than others, though Buxus sempervirens is moderately susceptible.

Wildlife Value

Though not a major wildlife plant, box does offer benefits. The early spring flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators when few other sources are available. The dense evergreen structure offers shelter and nesting sites for small birds, particularly in hedges. Various insects, including the striking box tree moth (an invasive species to watch for), feed on the foliage. Box is toxic if consumed in quantity, so it's deer and rabbit resistant—a definite advantage in rural gardens.

Seasonal Interest

Spring: Fresh new growth emerges in bright green, creating a lovely contrast with older, darker foliage. Tiny cream flowers appear, subtly fragrant.

Summer: Dense, glossy foliage in rich green provides invaluable structure and formality, creating a perfect backdrop for flowering plants.

Autumn: Foliage remains handsome and green, providing structure as herbaceous plants fade. The perfect time for final clipping.

Winter: Outstanding evergreen presence brings structure and life to dormant gardens. Frost highlights the geometric shapes beautifully.

Companion Planting

Box's formal, structured appearance pairs beautifully with both formal and informal plantings. Classic combinations include box edging with lavender, roses, or traditional herbaceous perennials. In cottage gardens, contrast structured box with loose, flowing plants like geraniums, alchemilla, and catmint. In contemporary schemes, combine clipped box balls with ornamental grasses and architectural perennials. Spring bulbs look particularly elegant emerging through low box hedging. The dark green foliage provides perfect contrast for silver-leaved plants like artemisia and stachys, or pale flowers such as white roses, delphiniums, and foxgloves.

Container Growing

Box is superb in containers, providing year-round structure for patios, entrances, and balconies. Use soil-based compost such as John Innes No. 3 for stability and longevity. Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes. Container-grown box requires more attention than those in open ground—water regularly, never allowing compost to dry out completely, and feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Top-dress annually, removing the top 5 centimetres of compost and replacing with fresh. Container box is more vulnerable to cold, so wrap pots in bubble wrap during harsh winters and move to sheltered positions if possible.

Historical Significance

Box has been cultivated in British gardens since Roman times and features prominently in many historic gardens, from Tudor knot gardens to Victorian parterres. Its longevity means many gardens contain box hedges that are centuries old, providing a living link to the past. This historical association adds depth and meaning to modern gardens, connecting contemporary gardeners with centuries of horticultural tradition.

Why Choose Bare Root?

Bare root box plants offer excellent value compared to container-grown specimens, particularly when purchasing in quantity for hedging. They're more environmentally sustainable, using no plastic pots and requiring fewer resources to produce and transport. When planted during the dormant season, bare root plants establish just as successfully as pot-grown alternatives, often adapting more readily to garden soil. The root systems aren't constrained by pots and develop naturally, creating stronger, healthier plants. For hedging projects requiring many plants, bare root box makes the project financially viable whilst maintaining quality.

Practical Tips for Success

Choose the right position: Box tolerates a range of conditions, but performs best with adequate moisture, reasonable drainage, and protection from harsh winter winds.

Be patient: Box grows slowly—this is a virtue, requiring less maintenance, but does mean results take time. Plan for the long term.

Feed regularly: Box is quite hungry, particularly when clipped regularly. Annual feeding maintains vigour and foliage colour.

Water consistently: Box dislikes drought. Consistent moisture, especially for young plants and those in containers, is essential for success.

Practice good hygiene: Clean tools, clear debris, and good air circulation help prevent diseases.

Final Thoughts

Buxus sempervirens remains one of the finest evergreen shrubs for British gardens. Its unparalleled ability to create structure, formality, and year-round interest, combined with its exceptional longevity and versatility, ensures its continued popularity. Whether you're creating a formal parterre, edging a vegetable garden, shaping topiary specimens, or simply adding evergreen structure to mixed borders, box delivers enduring beauty and timeless elegance. With proper care and attention to disease prevention, there's every reason to continue this centuries-old gardening tradition in your own garden.

Rootball are measured from the top of the rootball.

For protection from pests consider Shrub Shelters.

Please see our bare root plant guides for more information. We've put together a collect of help and advice articles covering what bare root plants are, why they are a good choice, which plants are available bare root, when and where to plant.