Variegated boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Aureovariegata')

Variegated boxwood

Variegated boxwood is a dwarf hybrid of a popular evergreen shrub that is often sculpted into elaborate ornamental shapes. This low-maintenance variety is resistant to deer, and it improves on the parent with its two-colored or 'variegated' leaves. It is a versatile garden performer ideal for edges, borders, and other locations in courtyard or urban gardens.

Scientific classification

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

1 m to 9 m

Plant Height

5 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Variegated

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Copper

Fruit Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Quickly Identify Variegated boxwood

Oval to elliptic leaves with bright green color and creamy golden-yellow margins.

Branches with grayish-brown bark, stems uniquely square with cottony midrib underside on leaves.

Non-showy greenish-yellow flowers, 1/8 inch (3 mm) diameter, clustered in rounded inflorescences.

Dehiscent capsules maturing to rich brown with three horns, splitting open at maturity. Capsule diameter: 0.2 inches (5 mm).

Deep blue-green upper leaf surface, yellowish lower surface, pinnate vein pattern, glossy leathery texture.

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Care Guide for Variegated boxwood

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from temperate regions, variegated boxwood thrives in evenly moist soil, requiring weekly watering for optimal growth. As an evergreen, it retains foliage year-round and needs stable moisture to keep leaves vibrant. While it is moderately drought-tolerant, supplemental watering may be necessary during dry spells.

Fertilize: Variegated boxwood produces small flowers and requires minimal fertilizer. During vigorous growth, apply fully decomposed organic fertilizer two to three times, coinciding with watering. Avoid over-fertilization to ensure optimal growth and health.

Pruning: Variegated boxwood features attractive variegated foliage and can be shaped for different garden styles. Prune in early to late winter, removing dead branches first and thinning for air circulation. Use clean, sharp tools to encourage healthy growth and control size, achieving a formal appearance with light, even trimming.

Propagation: Variegated boxwood is a slow-growing evergreen ideal for hedging and topiaries. Propagation is achieved using healthy tip cuttings from new growth, placed in a well-draining medium with consistent moisture and indirect sunlight. A stable environment and rooting hormone improve the success of root development.

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