Best Boxwood For Full Sun (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-grow shrub that thrives in direct sunlight, boxwood is a great choice. But with so many varieties to choose from, it can be hard to determine which is the best boxwood for full sun. Before making a purchase, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you select the right option for your garden.
First, you’ll want to consider the size and shape of the boxwood. Are you looking for a low-lying hedge or a taller statement plant? Boxwoods come in a range of sizes from dwarf to large, and in various shapes, including round, oval, and upright.
Next, consider the climate in your area. While many boxwoods can handle full sun, some may be better suited for hot and dry climates, while others may prefer cooler temperatures. Check the hardiness zone and sun exposure requirements for each variety you are considering to find the best fit for your location.
Finally, think about the overall aesthetic and purpose of your garden. Do you want a formal or informal look? Are you looking to create a privacy hedge or add a pop of color? These questions can help guide your selection and ensure that the boxwood you choose not only thrives in full sun but also complements the other plants in your garden.
Are you struggling to choose the best boxwood for full sun? Consider factors such as size, climate, and style to help narrow down your options and find the perfect fit for your garden.
10 Best Boxwood For Full Sun
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Ideal for creating a low-maintenance formal hedge with evergreen foliage, perfect for landscaping and enhancing outdoor spaces.
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It is an ideal outdoor plant for full sun to part shade areas with its flowering evergreen shrub and purple foliage.
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3
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Ideal for creating low-maintenance evergreen hedges in full sun outdoor areas.
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4
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The product is ideal for creating a fast-growing, cold-hardy formal evergreen shrub with small leaves.
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5
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This product is ideal for adding evergreen shrubs to your landscaping.
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6
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Ideal for creating low-maintenance, evergreen hedges that thrive in full sun outdoor environments.
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7
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Ideal for adding low maintenance greenery to your outdoor space with 10 live boxwood plants in quart pots.
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8
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This product is ideal for those looking for a low maintenance, drought tolerant blooming groundcover.
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9
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This product is ideal for landscaping and creating evergreen pyramids.
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10
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This product is ideal for adding fast-growing evergreen foliage that can thrive in cold weather.
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1. Winter Gem Boxwood – 15 Live Plants – Low Maintenance Formal Evergreen Hedge
Florida Foliage presents a remarkable evergreen shrub that is perfect for small hedges. This shrub is one of the toughest small-leaved boxwoods and can add a touch of elegance to formal gardens while providing year-round interest.
During the winter season, the shrub's rich green velvety foliage can acquire a golden bronze hue in cold winter zones but returns to its evergreen state once spring arrives. It matures to a height of 3-5 feet, making it an ideal choice for small hedges. Additionally, it produces inconspicuous white flowers during the spring season.
Establishing a regular watering schedule is crucial for this evergreen shrub to ensure the growth of a mature root system. The first year of growth requires daily watering, and after the root system is established, watering is necessary once a week, except during drought periods, which require regular watering. Mulching is recommended to prevent weed growth and to maintain high levels of moisture. Regular pruning during plant maturity is necessary to encourage branch development.
This evergreen shrub flourishes in partial to full sun, even in drought times, and is best suited for USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, this compact evergreen shrub is a wonderful addition to any garden and can provide an elegant touch to formal landscapes. It is a hardy and versatile plant that can withstand harsh winter conditions and still provide year-round interest.
2. Southern Living's Purple Foliage Shrub
The Loropetalum chinense 'Shang-Red' is a beautiful and vibrant plant that is perfect for those who love to add a pop of color to their garden. This plant is not available in Hawaii and Alaska and is shipped in a pot with soil.
The Loropetalum chinense 'Shang-Red' is a hardy plant that can thrive in USDA Zones 7-10. At maturity, it can reach a height of 6 feet and a width of 6 feet, making it a great option for those who want a substantial plant in their garden.
This plant is part of the Southern Living Plant Collection, which is known for its high-quality and beautiful plants. The Loropetalum chinense 'Shang-Red' is no exception, and it is sure to be a showstopper in any garden.
3. Wintergreen Boxwood (2.5 Gallon) Low-Maintenance Evergreen Hedge Shrub – Full Sun Live Outdoor Plant
Introducing the Buxus Microphylla Wintergreen, a must-have for any landscape enthusiast. This plant is a staple in any garden with its mature size of 3-5' H x 3-5' W. Its petite leaves require little pruning, making it the perfect foundation plant for any garden.
Not only does it add beauty to your garden, but it also provides deep and rich hedge protection. It serves as an excellent privacy screen and acts as a noise barrier from busy streets or high-traffic areas. You can prune it into a topiary to impress your neighbors and further enhance the beauty of your garden.
The Buxus Microphylla Wintergreen is a hardy plant that can withstand the coldest winter temperatures. It belongs to the cold-hardy boxwood collection and can survive down to -20 to -10 °F once established.
Please note that this item cannot be shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, and Tennessee, but it comes in a pot with soil for your convenience. This plant is hardy in zones 5-9, making it an excellent addition to any garden in these areas.
The Buxus Microphylla Wintergreen is a non-flowering plant, but its beauty is not dependent on its blooms. It thrives in full sun exposure, so be sure to choose a spot in your garden with plenty of sunlight.
4. Winter Gem Boxwood: Cold-Hardy Evergreen Shrub.
Florida Foliage is proud to present their exclusive product, the Winter Gem Korean Boxwood. This evergreen shrub is the perfect choice for small hedges and is among the hardiest of the small-leaved boxwoods. Its rich green foliage can even acquire a golden bronze hue in cold winter zones, but it is one of the first to become green again in spring, making it an excellent year-round addition to formal gardens.
The Winter Gem Boxwood is a classic hedge plant that is dense and evergreen, making it perfect for shearing into a small, formal hedge. It serves as an ideal option for defining different spaces in the garden or for a tidy foundation cover-up. This shrub is especially lovely against red brick and can be used as a partition to divide your front yard or driveway from your neighbor's. Additionally, it creates beautiful background foliage and can be shaped into lovely topiaries, particularly in cone shapes if planted where it snows. This plant is also an excellent choice for parterres and hedge mazes.
The Winter Gem Korean Boxwood is a round-shaped cultivar that is relatively vigorous and tolerates a wide range of sites and uses. The new foliage emerges in a lime-green color and transitions to a deep, glossy green. This shrub has a tendency to bronze when exposed to direct winter sun, but the bronzing will quickly disappear in spring as temperatures rise and new growth emerges. It is very similar to the cultivars 'Wintergreen' or 'Faulkner' and is deer resistant.
To maintain the desired shape of the Winter Gem Boxwood, it should be pruned each year in late winter to early spring using hand pruners or shears. Additional lighter prunings may be necessary in early to mid-summer, depending on the desired look and vigor of the plant. This cultivar tolerates more radical pruning if the plant has outgrown its desired size. Thinning is not necessary on this cultivar. 'Winter Gem' is very resistant to boxwood leafminer and very tolerant to boxwood blight.
The Winter Gem Korean Boxwood is the "go-to" boxwood for colder areas of the country. It is much more hardy than other boxwoods and will stay fresh and green all winter, even with temperatures falling to minus 20. If you want boxwood hedges, balls, and other clipped shapes, or just want a naturally-dense and rounded evergreen shrub, this reliable plant will give you what you want. Purchase the Winter Gem Korean Boxwood from Florida Foliage with confidence, knowing that you are receiving a high-quality product that will enhance the beauty of your garden.
5. Double Trouble Boxwood Duo By Das Farms
The product being offered comprises of two fully grown plants that come in quart pots with soilless media, measuring 8 inches in height. The actual size of the plants is clearly stated in the title and description of the product. The plants are not available for shipping to California due to state regulations, which are beyond the seller's control.
The plants boast a pyramidal to globe shape, with a mature height and spread of 5-6 feet. They have a medium growth rate and are suitable for Zones 5-10. They thrive in full sun, part sun, and full shade, making them versatile and adaptable to various environments. The plants' usage is diverse, including being used as a specimen, background, foundation, or area separation.
The seller emphasizes that now is the best time to transplant the plants, as the leaves are changing and falling off. Although some plants may not appear at their most attractive during this season, it is ideal for planting. The seller guarantees successful transplantation within 30 days if the included planting instructions are followed, along with correct location and water. Furthermore, deciduous plants purchased during the winter in a dormant state are guaranteed to leaf out in the spring under the same conditions.
6. Japanese Boxwood (2.5 Gallon) Low-Maintenance Evergreen Hedge Shrub – Full Sun Live Outdoor Plant…
This product is an evergreen plant, scientifically known as Buxus microphylla var. japonica, that is well-suited for hedges and foundation planting. It is a mature plant that can grow up to 5-6' in height and 4-6' in width, with a hardiness range of USDA Zones 5-9.
One notable feature of this plant is its deer resistance and drought tolerance, making it a low-maintenance option for those living in areas with frequent wildlife encounters or limited rainfall. The plant is shipped in a pot with soil for ease of planting and care.
It is important to note that this item cannot be shipped to Hawaii, Tennessee, or Alaska due to state regulations. However, for those residing in appropriate areas, this evergreen offers a traditional and classic aesthetic for landscaping projects.
7. Hybrid Boxwood Quart Set – Low Maintenance!
The product being offered is a fully grown plant with various specifications that are important for potential buyers to consider. The plant is available in different sizes, which are clearly indicated in the title and description. However, buyers from California should note that orders from this state will be cancelled due to state regulations that are beyond the seller's control.
The plant is suitable for growing in zones 5-9 and can reach a mature height of 3 feet with a spread of 3 feet. It has a medium growth rate and can thrive in full sun, part shade, or full shade. It requires well-drained soil to grow successfully.
The plant is shipped in quart containers and is 6-8 inches tall, with soilless media to ensure safe transport. The package is double boxed to prevent any damage during shipping. The seller guarantees that the plant will successfully transplant if the buyer follows the included planting instructions and places it in the correct location with adequate water. Deciduous plants purchased during winter dormancy are also guaranteed to leaf out in spring under the same conditions.
Potential buyers can trust that this plant is of high quality and comes with a guarantee of successful transplantation. It is important to note that California residents cannot purchase this plant due to state regulations. Overall, this product is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a beautiful and healthy plant to their garden.
8. Low Maintenance Blue Groundcover Bundle
Florida Foliage brings you an exclusive plant that is grown, packaged and shipped with utmost care. Introducing Blue Daze, a unique plant that can be cultivated in average garden soils with average moisture. Once established, it can tolerate some drought making it a low maintenance addition to your garden.
This plant has a controlled habit that is not leggy or lanky, making it ideal as a ground cover or in containers and hanging baskets in full sun. Blue Daze has superior blooming vigor, giving you a carpet of dead-on true blue flowers. It has better vigor and survivability in the garden than the usual Evolvulus.
Blue Daze is a dwarf cultivar with true blue flowers and fuzzy, silvery-green foliage that is very heat tolerant, making it perfect for southern gardens. The plant does not require dead-heading to keep it blooming all summer long. However, the blooms will close in the afternoon.
This plant loves hot weather, in fact, the hotter the better! It performs best in full sun and needs to be protected from even light frost. Once established, it is drought tolerant. However, plants need to be watered well for several weeks during root establishment. While the plants can withstand drought conditions, growth and flowering are better with consistent moisture. Deadheading is unnecessary, but a good dose of compost or slow-release fertilizer will improve performance.
Blue Daze prefers moderate to dry soil moisture. It is recommended to allow the soil to cycle from moist to dry. It is important to avoid both severe dry downs/wilting and long periods of wet soil, especially with cooler temperatures, lower light conditions, and higher humidity levels.
9. Evergreen Pyramid: Dee Runk Boxwood Live Plant
The product being offered is a deciduous plant that grows fast and can reach a mature height of 10 feet with a width of 2-3 feet. The plant is suitable for zones 5-9 and can thrive under full sun, part sun, or full shade. The soil requirements for the plant are well-drained and highly tolerant.
The plant will be shipped in a trade gallon container with soilless media and will measure 1-2 feet tall. It is important to note that the pictures provided are of fully grown plants and the size shipped is indicated in the title and description. During winter, deciduous plants do not have leaves.
Please be advised that orders from California will be cancelled due to state regulations beyond the seller's control.
The seller guarantees a successful transplant for 30 days if the provided planting instructions are followed correctly in terms of location and water. If a dormant plant is purchased during winter, it is guaranteed to leaf out in the spring under the same conditions.
10. Wintergem Korean Boxwood | 10 Live Plants | Fast Growing Cold Hardy Evergreen
This evergreen shrub is a fantastic choice for small hedges in formal gardens, offering year-round interest. Boasting rich green foliage that can take on a golden bronze hue in cold winter zones, it is one of the hardiest small-leaved boxwoods and is among the first to become green again in spring.
In the spring, this compact evergreen shrub produces white flowers that are inconspicuous in nature. While maintaining dark green velvety foliage during winter, it grows to a height of 3-5 feet, making it an ideal shrub for small hedges.
To ensure the growth of a mature root system, the evergreen shrub requires a regular watering schedule. During the first year of growth, it is essential to water it daily. Once the mature root system is established, watering is needed weekly, with regular watering necessary during droughts. Mulching is recommended to keep the moisture content high and deter weeds. Pruning is necessary during plant maturity to encourage branch development.
This evergreen shrub flourishes in partial to full sun, even during droughts, in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 to 9. It is grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage.
Best Boxwood For Full Sun FAQs
Are there any pests or diseases that affect boxwood in full sun?
Yes, boxwoods can be susceptible to pests and diseases even when they are planted in full sun. Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that is becoming increasingly common and can quickly spread among boxwood plants. Symptoms of boxwood blight include dark leaf spots, black streaking on stems, and a rapid defoliation of the plant. Another disease that can affect boxwoods is called Volutella blight, which causes brown spots on the leaves and stem cankers. Boxwoods can also be affected by pests such as boxwood leafminer and boxwood psyllid, which can cause leaf damage and deformities. To prevent these issues, it is important to plant boxwoods in well-draining soil, avoid overhead watering, and prune regularly to promote air circulation. It is also a good idea to inspect boxwoods regularly for any signs of disease or pests and to promptly address any issues that are found.
Can all boxwood varieties tolerate full sun?
While boxwoods are known for their ability to thrive in various lighting conditions, not every variety can tolerate full sun. Some boxwood varieties can handle full sun exposure and even prefer it, while others may suffer from sunscald and leaf scorch.
Varieties like Green Velvet, Green Mountain, and Green Gem are known for their ability to tolerate full sun exposure. On the other hand, English boxwood and American boxwood may struggle with full sun, especially in hot and dry climates.
It's important to note that even sun-tolerant boxwoods will benefit from some shade during the hottest parts of the day. Providing afternoon shade or using a shade cloth during the hottest months can help prevent leaf scorch and keep your boxwoods healthy.
In summary, not all boxwood varieties can tolerate full sun. It's important to research the specific needs of your boxwood variety and provide appropriate lighting conditions for optimal growth and health.
How do I ensure my boxwood plants get enough water in full sun?
Boxwood plants are known for their excellent tolerance to full sun. However, they require sufficient water to thrive, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. Here are some tips to ensure your boxwood plants get enough water in full sun:
1. Water deeply: Boxwood plants have deep roots, and watering them deeply ensures that the water reaches the roots. You can use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water slowly and deeply.
2. Water in the morning: Watering in the morning allows the leaves to dry off during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Watering in the evening can lead to prolonged leaf wetness, which can promote fungal growth.
3. Mulch around the plants: Mulching helps to retain moisture in the soil, reducing water loss through evaporation. Use organic mulch such as bark or wood chips and apply it 2-3 inches deep around the plants.
4. Monitor soil moisture: Check the soil moisture level regularly, and water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry to the touch. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your boxwood plants get enough water in full sun, promoting healthy growth and development.
How do I prune boxwood plants exposed to full sun?
When it comes to pruning boxwood plants that are exposed to full sun, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it's important to wait until the right time of year to prune your boxwoods. The best time to prune boxwoods is in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts to appear.
When pruning your boxwoods, it's important to use sharp, clean tools and to make clean, precise cuts. Avoid tearing or damaging the branches when pruning, as this can lead to disease or pest problems.
When pruning boxwoods that are exposed to full sun, it's important to pay attention to the shape of the plant and to remove any dead or damaged branches. You may also want to thin out the plant to improve air circulation and allow more sunlight to reach the interior of the plant.
Overall, pruning boxwoods exposed to full sun requires careful attention and precision to ensure the health and beauty of the plant. If you're not confident in your pruning skills, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional landscaper or arborist.
How much sunlight do boxwood plants need?
Boxwood plants are known for their tolerance of various light conditions. However, they do require a certain amount of sunlight to thrive. Ideally, boxwood plants need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day. If they receive less than that, they may become thin and leggy, and their growth may be stunted. On the other hand, too much sun exposure can lead to leaf scorch and damage.
It is important to note that the exact amount of sunlight required by boxwood plants may vary depending on their specific variety and location. Some boxwood varieties are more tolerant of shade, while others require more sun exposure. Additionally, the climate and weather conditions in your area may impact the amount of sunlight your boxwood plants receive.
To ensure optimal growth and health of your boxwood plants, it is recommended to research their specific variety and consult with a gardening expert in your area for advice on the ideal amount of sunlight and other growing conditions.
How often should I fertilize boxwood plants in full sun?
Boxwood plants are popular evergreen shrubs that are known for their hardiness and versatility. If you have boxwood plants in full sun, fertilization is important to ensure their growth and health. Regular fertilization helps to ensure that the boxwood plants receive the necessary nutrients to thrive.
Generally, boxwood plants should be fertilized in the early spring, before new growth appears. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer that will gradually release nutrients over time. This will help to avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
If your boxwood plants are in full sun, they may require more frequent fertilization than those in partial shade. In this case, you may consider fertilizing again in mid-summer, depending on the growth and appearance of your plants.
It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and to water the plants thoroughly after fertilization. With proper fertilization, your boxwood plants in full sun will remain healthy and vibrant.
What are some tips for successfully growing boxwood plants in full sun?
Boxwood plants are a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to their evergreen foliage and versatility in shaping. However, growing boxwood plants in full sun can be challenging as they require specific care and conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for successfully growing boxwood plants in full sun:
1. Soil: Boxwood plants prefer well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and soil structure.
2. Water: Boxwood plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water deeply and less frequently rather than shallow and frequent watering to encourage deep root growth.
3. Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to provide necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
4. Pruning: Prune boxwood plants regularly to maintain their shape and encourage dense growth. However, avoid pruning during hot and dry weather to prevent stressing the plant.
5. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow boxwood plants in full sun and enjoy their beauty in your garden or landscape.
What are the best boxwood varieties for full sun?
Boxwood is a popular evergreen shrub that is known for its versatility and ability to thrive in various conditions, including full sun. When it comes to the best boxwood varieties for full sun, there are several options to choose from. One of the most popular varieties is the Green Velvet Boxwood, which is known for its vibrant green foliage, compact growth habit, and ability to withstand full sun exposure. Another excellent option is the Winter Gem Boxwood, which has a dense growth habit, glossy green foliage, and is resistant to winter burn. The Sprinter Boxwood is another great choice, as it has a fast growth rate, is easy to maintain, and has a vibrant green color that lasts throughout the year. Other boxwood varieties that do well in full sun include the Baby Gem Boxwood, the Chicagoland Green Boxwood, and the Green Mountain Boxwood. When choosing a boxwood variety for full sun, it's important to consider the specific growing conditions and requirements of each plant to ensure that it will thrive in your particular landscape.
What are the characteristics of boxwood plants that thrive in full sun?
Boxwood plants are known for their versatility and ability to thrive in different growing conditions. However, boxwood plants that are grown in full sun have unique characteristics that allow them to flourish in such environments. Here are some of the characteristics of boxwood plants that thrive in full sun:
1. Drought tolerance: Boxwood plants that are grown in full sun are typically more drought-tolerant than those grown in shade. This is because they have smaller leaves and a more compact growth habit, which reduces water loss through transpiration.
2. Sunburn resistance: Boxwood plants that are grown in full sun are more resistant to sunburn than those grown in shade. This is because they have thicker leaves that provide better protection against the sun's rays.
3. Compact growth habit: Boxwood plants that are grown in full sun tend to have a more compact growth habit than those grown in shade. This is because they receive more light, which stimulates the production of lateral buds and results in a bushier, more compact plant.
4. Slower growth rate: Boxwood plants that are grown in full sun tend to have a slower growth rate than those grown in shade. This is because they have less access to water and nutrients, which slows down their growth.
Overall, boxwood plants that are grown in full sun have unique characteristics that allow them to thrive in such environments. By providing them with the right growing conditions and care, you can enjoy healthy and beautiful boxwood plants in your garden.
What is the best soil type for boxwood plants in full sun?
Boxwood plants are a popular choice for hedges, topiaries, and garden accents due to their hardiness and versatility. When it comes to selecting the best soil type for boxwood plants in full sun, the ideal soil should be well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0.
Sandy loam soil is the best soil type for boxwood plants in full sun, as it provides excellent drainage and aeration, which ensures the roots receive enough oxygen. Additionally, adding organic matter like compost or leaf mold can help improve soil fertility and structure, which ultimately supports better growth and development of boxwood plants.
It's important to note that boxwood plants are sensitive to water stress, so it's crucial to maintain adequate moisture levels in the soil. Regular watering during dry spells and mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture. Overall, providing the right soil type and proper care can help ensure healthy and thriving boxwood plants in full sun.
