
Buxus sempervirens
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
Common Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is a slow-growing, dense evergreen shrub prized for hedging and topiary, with small, glossy dark green leaves. In NE Florida's zone 9b, it is marginally suitable — sandy soils, summer heat, nematodes, and boxwood leafminer are significant challenges; provide rich amended soil, consistent irrigation, afternoon shade, and consider heat-tolerant alternatives such as Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon Holly) or Schaefferia frutescens (Florida Boxwood). Starting at $14.95.
Good planting window.
Higher water demand in summer heat.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Boxwood performs best in partial sun to partial shade in NE Florida; avoid intense afternoon sun, which causes leaf scorch in summer heat. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially in NE Florida's sandy soils, which dry out quickly. Mulch heavily to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature; drought stress makes plants more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Boxwood requires rich, loamy or clay-based, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH; sandy soils must be heavily amended with organic matter and irrigated consistently. Apply a balanced slow-release shrub fertilizer in spring; avoid over-fertilizing, which invites leafminer and other pests.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.

Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, deer resistance, and zone 9a hardiness.
Boxwood is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-6 feet × 3-5 feet (varies by variety).
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.