Overview
Wintergreen boxwood is a compact evergreen valued for dense small leaves and a formal, finely textured appearance.
Mature Size and Habit
Plants typically mature about 3 to 5 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, though regular pruning can maintain a smaller outline. Growth is slow to moderate and naturally rounded, with dense branching from near the base.
Best Landscape Uses
Use as a low hedge, border, foundation plant, knot-garden element, or container accent.
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun is acceptable, but protection from intense afternoon sun is helpful in Central Florida.
Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation
Boxwood needs well-drained soil and is vulnerable to prolonged wetness. Water deeply during establishment, then let the upper soil begin to dry before watering again. Keep irrigation off the foliage when possible and do not pile mulch against stems.
Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida
Plant from late fall through early spring so roots develop in cooler weather. Avoid installation into saturated summer soil or immediately before a forecast heat wave.
Pruning and Maintenance
Use selective thinning to admit light and air, then light surface trimming for shape. Avoid severe cuts into leafless wood and do not shear during peak heat. Sanitize tools and monitor for boxwood leafminer, mites, scale, root rot, and blight symptoms.
Wildlife Value
The small spring flowers may offer limited forage to insects, but boxwood is not a strong Florida wildlife plant.
Cold and Heat Sensitivity
Wintergreen has useful cold tolerance, yet Tampa summer heat, humidity, and wet soil can be more limiting. Afternoon shade, airflow, and correct irrigation reduce stress. Sudden freezes may bronze foliage, which often improves with spring growth.
Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings
All boxwood parts can be toxic if eaten and may pose a concern for pets or children who chew plants. Wear gloves if sensitive to sap. Roots are fibrous rather than aggressively destructive, but keep normal clearance from foundations and utilities.
Invasive Concerns
This boxwood is nonnative but is not generally considered invasive in Florida landscapes.
Helpful Resources
Consult the NC State Extension Korean boxwood profile for identification, culture, toxicity, and pest information.