North Star Boxwood

North Star Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'North Star')

North Star Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'North Star') is a cold-hardy broadleaf evergreen prized for its naturally globe-like form and dense foliage. Developed by the University of Minnesota, this cultivar was bred for superior cold tolerance while maintaining the classic boxwood look. With its strong shape and lush green leaves, 'North Star' provides year-round structure in both formal and informal settings, even in northern climates where traditional boxwoods may struggle.

Distinctive Features

'North Star' grows slowly into a tidy, rounded shape, typically reaching 2.5 to 3 feet tall and wide at maturity. Its evergreen leaves remain rich dark green throughout the seasons, resisting winter bronzing better than many other boxwood cultivars. This compact, symmetrical habit makes it ideal for low hedges, edging, and foundation plantings, particularly where reliable winter color and structure are essential.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; prefers some afternoon shade in hotter regions to prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Performs best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils with good organic content.
• Water: Moderate; provide regular moisture, especially during dry spells and establishment period.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels; good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9; exceptionally hardy and reliable even in colder northern regions.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Its consistent form and evergreen presence make it a natural choice for focal containers or accent beds.
• Low Hedges and Edging: Excellent for structured lines along walkways, patios, or garden borders.
• Foundation Plantings: Perfect for creating clean outlines and softening hard architectural edges.
• Mixed Evergreen Borders: Blends well with other shrubs and perennials to provide contrast and structure.
• Formal Gardens: Works beautifully in parterre designs or as part of symmetrical garden layouts.

Low Maintenance Care

North Star Boxwood offers all-season interest with minimal upkeep. Its naturally compact form requires little pruning, and its hardy nature minimizes winter protection needs.

• Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially during the first year; mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Pruning: Light shaping in late spring or early summer; dense branching reduces the need for frequent cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed.
• Pest & Disease Resistance: Good resistance to boxwood leafminer and other common pests; choose well-drained sites to reduce disease risk.
• Winter Care: Cold hardy and holds color well through winter; mulch root zone to prevent freeze-thaw stress.

Why Choose North Star Boxwood?

North Star Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'North Star') combines cold hardiness, tidy form, and rich green foliage into a durable, all-season shrub. It's a top pick for gardeners seeking evergreen structure with minimal effort, especially in colder regions.

• Cold-Hardy Performance: One of the hardiest boxwoods available, ideal for USDA Zone 4 and beyond.
• Low-Growing, Rounded Shape: Maintains its compact, globe-like form without heavy pruning.
• Evergreen Year-Round: Deep green leaves retain color through winter with minimal bronzing.
• Great for Structure: Adds symmetry and definition to borders, foundations, and formal layouts.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little intervention to thrive and maintain its attractive shape.

With its resilience, elegant form, and dependable color, North Star Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'North Star') is a smart and stylish choice for landscapes across a wide range of climates.