Boxwood : Buxus

This evergreen shrub forms a broad mound that reaches 3 ft. tall and wide. The small, fine-textured leaves are dark green.

Often shaped into topiary and hedging, it takes hard trimming and grows slowly. Dwarf forms have long been popular to edge walks and flowerbeds. The small leathery leaves have a musky odor, which keeps animals from eating the foliage. Flowers are inconspicuous. Plant in well-drained soil. Protect from sun and wind in cold winter climates. Don't disturb or bury the shallow roots.