Winter Gem Boxwood | Evergreen Shrub

The Gold Standard Cold-Hardy Boxwood

Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Winter Gem') is one of the most widely planted and trusted boxwood varieties in North America — and for good reason. It holds its rich, deep green color through winter better than almost any other boxwood, resists the bronzing and bleaching that plagues lesser varieties in cold climates, and maintains a naturally dense, rounded form that requires minimal pruning to keep tidy. Whether you need a formal hedge, a topiary specimen, a foundation planting, or a container accent, Winter Gem delivers consistent, reliable performance year after year.

Why Landscapers and Homeowners Choose Winter Gem

• Exceptional winter color retention — stays rich green through cold winters; far less bronzing than other boxwood varieties in zones 5–6
• Dense, naturally rounded form — compact growth habit requires minimal pruning to maintain a tidy mound shape
• Topiary and hedge-ready — responds beautifully to shearing; holds crisp edges for formal shapes and hedges
• Deer-resistant — the aromatic foliage deters deer browsing in most landscapes
• Drought-tolerant once established — low water needs after the first growing season
• Container-friendly — thrives in pots for patios, entryways, and balconies; can overwinter outdoors in zones 6+

Hardiness & Growing Zones

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
• Zones 5–6: One of the most cold-hardy boxwoods available; maintains green color through harsh winters better than most varieties; plant in a sheltered location with wind protection to minimize winter burn
• Zones 7–8: Ideal conditions; vigorous growth with dense, year-round evergreen foliage
• Zone 9: Thrives with afternoon shade; avoid full western sun exposure in the hottest climates to prevent leaf scorch
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (partial shade preferred in zones 8–9 and in hot, dry climates)
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5–7.0); avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot
• Mature size: 4–6 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide if unpruned; easily maintained at any size with regular shearing
• Growth rate: Moderate (3–6 inches per year); faster in ideal conditions

Planting & Care Tips

Plant in well-drained soil with good air circulation — boxwoods are susceptible to root rot in poorly drained sites. Space 2–3 ft apart for a hedge, or 3–4 ft for individual specimens. Water deeply during the first growing season; once established, reduce frequency. Mulch 2–3 inches around the base (keeping mulch away from the trunk) to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune in late spring after new growth hardens off, or lightly in late summer. Avoid heavy pruning in fall, which can stimulate tender growth vulnerable to winter damage.

Available Sizes

• 1 Gallon — most economical; ideal for mass planting or hedge projects
• 3 Gallon — well-established root system; faster to hedge or specimen size
• 5 Gallon — largest available; immediate landscape impact; ready to anchor a formal design