Buxus, Genus, microphylla, Species, 'Winter Gem', Cultivar,
- Genus & species
- Cultivar
winter gem boxwood
Garden selection; {Buxus microphylla} native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan
Overview
Buxus microphylla 'Winter Gem' is a rounded boxwood, growing 24–48 inches (60–120 cm) tall and wide. Bright green small glossy evergreen leaves 0.5–0.75 inch (12–18 mm) with good winter green-color retention — minimal bronzing compared to many B. sempervirens cultivars. Naturally rounded (mounding) form. B. microphylla parentage (Japanese/Korean boxwood) — generally more heat-tolerant than pure B. sempervirens types, suited to zones 5–9 including the warm, humid Southeast where European boxwood may struggle. Compared to other boxwood cultivars: B. microphylla 'Green Gem' (smaller globe, 18–24 inches / 45–60 cm), 'Winter Gem' (rounded, 24–48 inches / 60–120 cm), Buxus 'Wintergreen' (rounded hybrid, 24–48 inches, zone 4), and B. sempervirens 'Green Mountain' (pyramidal, 36–60 inches / 90–150 cm). Boxwood blight (Calonectria pseudonaviculata) is a threat — buy from inspected sources, avoid overhead irrigation. Boxwood leafminer is the primary insect pest. Deer-resistant. Slow-growing — 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) per year. Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses (buxine alkaloids). Full sun to partial shade. Well-draining soil.
Native Range
Buxus microphylla is native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.Suggested Uses
Grown as a hedge, border, or formal accent in zones 5–9, spaced 24–36 inches (60–90 cm) apart for hedging. The rounded form suits borders and foundation plantings. More heat-tolerant than pure B. sempervirens. Deer-resistant. Toxic.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread2' - 4'
Colors
Bloom Information
Inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in spring. The rounded evergreen form is the year-round feature.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Bright green, small, glossy — the BRIGHTEST green boxwood; minimal winter bronzingGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Full sun to partial shade. Well-draining soil. Slow-growing (2–4 inches / 5–10 cm per year). More heat-tolerant than B. sempervirens. Monitor for boxwood blight and leafminer. Deer-resistant. Toxic (buxine alkaloids). Zones 5–9.Pruning
Shear for formal shape in late spring or early summer after new growth hardens. The naturally rounded form requires less shearing than angular shapes. Do not cut into bare interior wood.Pruning Schedule
Prune: June–July
summer
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 7 gallons
