Winter Gem Boxwood

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3 - 4 Feet

Mature Spread

3 - 4 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Compact, elegant, and reliably green through four seasons, Winter Gem Boxwood is a top pick for low hedges, borders, foundation plantings, and formal knot gardens. Unlike many boxwoods that bronze in winter, ‘Winter Gem’ holds its rich color in cold climates, offering year-round structure and curb appeal in small spaces and grand designs alike.

This refined evergreen forms a dense, rounded mound (typically 2–3 ft tall and wide) with softly rounded, light-green leaves that respond beautifully to shearing. Discreet, lightly fragrant spring flowers draw early pollinators, while the plant’s tidy habit shines in beds, planters, and parterre layouts.

Winter Gem Boxwood Care

Plant in full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade is helpful in hotter regions and windy exposures. Provide well-drained, fertile soil amended with compost; aim for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Water regularly the first season to establish deep roots, then irrigate during prolonged dry spells. Mulch 2–3" over the root zone (keep mulch a few inches off the stems) to moderate soil moisture and temperature.

Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release formula after the first year. Shear or hand-prune in late spring to mid-summer to refine shape—‘Winter Gem’ rebounds well from light mistakes; avoid hard cuts late in the season.

Monitor common boxwood issues (leafminer, psyllid, mites, and root rot) and prioritize good airflow, sanitation, and proper watering to prevent problems. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Note: All parts of boxwood are toxic if ingested; site away from curious pets and children.

Winter Gem Boxwood Spacing

For a tight, formal hedge, plant 36 inches apart, center-to-center. For mass plantings or softer borders, space 48 inches apart. As a single specimen in beds or mixed containers, allow 24–36 inches of elbow room for shaping and airflow. In planters, choose a container at least as wide as the plant’s current spread with excellent drainage.

Why Grow Winter Gem Boxwood?

• Holds deep green color through winter; resists bronzing compared to many boxwoods

• Compact 2–3 ft size fits hedges, borders, and containers

• Dense, easily sheared foliage for formal designs and knot gardens

• Adaptable to sun/part shade with modest water needs once established

• Low maintenance with light seasonal pruning; hardy in USDA Zones 5–9

A polished, four-season evergreen that stays lush when others fade—Winter Gem brings crisp edges, classic form, and effortless elegance to any landscape.