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Variegated Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Aureovariegata'
Variegated Boxwood shrubs feature striking yellow-edged foliage that adds year-round color and texture, making them perfect for formal hedges, borders, or accent plantings. Their deer resistance, low-maintenance needs, and adaptability to sun or shade make them a versatile and durable choice for any garden setting.
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Variegated Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Aureovariegata’) is a stunning evergreen shrub with distinctive variegated foliage that adds year-round color and texture to your landscape. The leaves are edged with creamy yellow margins, creating a striking contrast against the deep green centers. This slow-growing boxwood reaches a mature height of 4 to 6 feet, making it ideal for a hedge, border, or standalone accent plant. Its dense, upright growth habit and eye-catching foliage make it stand out in formal and informal garden designs.
Thriving in USDA zones 5-8, Variegated English Boxwood is adaptable to a variety of conditions, preferring well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It maintains its vibrant coloration throughout the year, providing a unique visual interest in all seasons. Like other boxwoods, this variety is relatively low-maintenance and responds well to pruning, making it perfect for shaping into hedges or topiaries. It’s also deer-resistant, offering peace of mind for gardeners in areas prone to wildlife browsing.
In addition to its beauty, Variegated Boxwood is highly versatile in the landscape, whether used to frame pathways, add texture to mixed borders, or create a formal hedge. Its variegated leaves provide a unique contrast that pairs well with both flowering plants and other evergreens. With minimal care, this elegant shrub offers long-lasting structure and visual interest, making it an excellent investment for any garden space.
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-8 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 5 to 6 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 5 to 6 Feet |
| Classification: | Evergreen shrub |
| Sunlight: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Habit: | Rounded |
| Foliage: | Variegated yellow and green |
| Soil Condition: | Any well-drained soil |
| Water Requirements: | Water well until established |
How to Care for Variegated Boxwood
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Variegated Boxwood plants for years to come!
How do I Plant Variegated Boxwood Shrubs?
To plant Variegated Boxwood shrubs, start by selecting a location with well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun, as these conditions allow the shrub to thrive and maintain its vibrant foliage. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball to ensure the roots have room to spread. Place the shrub in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface, then backfill with a mix of native soil and compost to improve drainage and nutrient content. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and establish strong root development. If planting multiple Variegated Boxwoods for a hedge or border, space them about 3 feet apart to allow for proper growth and airflow. Once planted, Variegated Boxwood shrubs benefit from a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also helps reduce weed competition, which can impact the shrub's growth. Water regularly during the first growing season to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, as boxwoods prefer well-drained conditions. Regular care and monitoring will ensure your Variegated Boxwood shrubs thrive, displaying their unique yellow-edged leaves and adding year-round beauty and structure to your landscape.
How do I Water Variegated Boxwood Shrubs?
To properly water Variegated Boxwood shrubs, begin by establishing a consistent watering routine, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week, ensuring the water reaches the root zone, typically about 6-8 inches into the soil. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week to prevent the soil from drying out. Be sure to water at the base of the shrub and avoid wetting the foliage, as damp leaves can lead to fungal issues. Deep watering encourages strong root development, which is essential for the long-term health of the shrub. Once established, Variegated Boxwood shrubs become moderately drought-tolerant and will require less frequent watering. However, it's important to monitor the soil moisture, especially during extended dry spells or high heat. Check the soil a few inches below the surface; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Mulching around the base of the shrub helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, reducing the need for frequent watering. With proper watering practices, your Variegated Boxwood will maintain its vibrant yellow-edged foliage and thrive, providing year-round beauty and structure in your garden.
How do I Fertilize Variegated Boxwood Shrubs?
To fertilize Variegated Boxwood shrubs, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy root development and vibrant foliage. A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio around 10-10-10 is ideal for promoting growth without overstimulating the shrub. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the shrub, being careful not to let it come in direct contact with the trunk to prevent root burn. After applying the fertilizer, water thoroughly to help the nutrients reach the root zone. This early feeding ensures the Variegated Boxwood has the nutrients it needs to maintain its bright yellow-edged leaves and dense growth throughout the season. For additional support, Variegated Boxwood shrubs may benefit from a light second feeding in mid-summer, especially if they are planted in poor soil or showing signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing or stunted growth. Incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure can also help enrich the soil and provide a natural source of nutrients. Regular fertilization not only keeps the shrubs healthy and resistant to pests and diseases but also enhances their unique variegated appearance, ensuring they remain a striking feature in your landscape year-round.
How do I Prune Variegated Boxwood Shrubs?
To prune Variegated Boxwood shrubs, it’s best to do a light pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps shape the shrub while encouraging dense, healthy foliage. Start by using clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, which promotes better airflow and overall plant health. Lightly trim the outer growth to maintain the shrub’s naturally rounded shape, but avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time to prevent stress. Regular pruning helps preserve the shrub’s compact form and ensures its vibrant yellow-edged leaves are well displayed. For ongoing maintenance, Variegated Boxwood shrubs can benefit from additional light pruning in the summer to maintain their shape, particularly if they are part of a formal hedge or topiary design. However, avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as it can encourage tender new growth that may be damaged by winter cold. Thinning the interior branches periodically can improve light penetration and air circulation, reducing the risk of disease and promoting healthier growth. With proper pruning techniques, your Variegated Boxwood shrubs will remain vibrant, maintaining their unique foliage and structure year-round.
