Franklin's Gem Boxwood

Franklin's Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Franklins Gem')

Franklin's Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Franklins Gem') is a compact, evergreen shrub valued for its dense, low-growing habit and exceptional cold tolerance. A selection of littleleaf boxwood, it maintains fine-textured foliage and a rich green color throughout the year, making it a reliable choice for edging, borders, and formal garden designs.

Distinctive Features

This dwarf variety matures at 1 to 2 feet tall with a spread of 2 to 3 feet, forming a dense, rounded mound. Its small, glossy leaves hold their vibrant green color through all seasons, with minimal bronzing compared to other cultivars. Strong resistance to winter burn makes it particularly well-suited for colder climates and exposed planting locations.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; some winter sun protection is helpful in colder regions.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral pH is best.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during the first season and during prolonged dry periods.
• Humidity: Thrives in areas with moderate humidity and good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9; extremely hardy and reliable in northern zones.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Neat size and form make it ideal for low foundation beds.
• Borders and Walkways: Excellent choice for edging paths, drives, and garden borders.
• Formal Gardens: Suited to knot gardens, parterres, and structured landscape designs.
• Rock Gardens: Works well in small spaces and alpine-inspired plantings.
• Container Gardens: Maintains a tidy form in pots or planters year-round.

Low Maintenance Care

Franklin's Gem Boxwood is an easy-care shrub that requires little pruning or intervention. Once established, it thrives with only basic maintenance and offers years of dependable performance.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; water in drought for best foliage health.
• Pruning: Light shearing after spring growth maintains shape if desired.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support dense growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Tolerates common boxwood issues when spaced for airflow and properly cared for.
• Winter Care: Extremely resistant to cold injury; rarely needs wrapping or added protection.

Why Choose Franklin's Gem Boxwood?

Franklin's Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Franklins Gem') delivers dependable structure, vibrant color, and cold hardiness in a dwarf form, making it a favorite among homeowners and professionals alike.

• Dwarf Growth Habit: Naturally low and rounded, perfect for edging or compact spaces.
• Year-Round Foliage: Retains deep green leaves through winter with little bronzing.
• Cold Hardy: One of the most winter-tolerant boxwood cultivars.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little pruning or upkeep to look its best.
• Versatile Use: Works in foundations, borders, formal gardens, and containers.

For compact form, reliable winter performance, and evergreen appeal, Franklin's Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla 'Franklins Gem') is an excellent choice for structured landscapes and year-round beauty.