The scent of history seems to cling to the air, when a home gardener has boxwood planted in the landscape. Boxwood’s musky, pungent fragrance seems to be most pronounced after an evening rain shower and keeps deer at a distance. Its undulating form also adds green softness to any backdrop of hardwood trees or deciduous shrubs.

Known as “Man’s Oldest Garden Ornamental,” boxwood has been cultivated as early as 4,000 B.C. This tree shrub was introduced to North America from Amsterdam in the mid-1600s and served as a Colonial Era favorite, commonly used for farm hedges and foundation specimens. There is no better place than Shepherdstown to see the billowy curves of the lush emerald leaves creating formal gardens, interesting topiary and allee views to the Potomac River.

Although misnomer terms “American” (Buxus sempervirens) and “English” (Suffruticosa) are commonly used, boxwood is not native to either country. Moreover, it is a myth that there are only two kinds of boxwood, as there are some 90 species of boxwood, though fewer species (and cultivars) are grown commercially.

Plant size, shape, leaf characteristics, growth rates and hardiness vary among species, so let’s focus on the common boxwood B. sempervirens. The genus name means “box tree,” referring to wood usage and the square cross-section shape of young stems on some species. The species name points to the dark glossy “always green” leaves.

Don’t shy away from growing this low maintenance plant, but choose a location with full size dimensions in mind. Autumn is the best time for planting in sun-dappled shade or full sun with afternoon shade. Boxwood like a pH ranging between 6.5-7.5 to allow for maximum nutrient absorption. Test and amend soil prior to making an investment in these plants.

Box roots naturally grow close to the surface, so plant the crown slightly above the soil line and mound your soil mixture up over the roots. Use shredded leaves, hardwood chips or pine straw to create a plant skirt. Don’t bank the mulch against the trunk. Replenish decomposing mulch to keep the soil cool and hydrated. Proper drainage is essential.

Boxwood flowers in spring, but the greenish-cream blossoms are insignificant compared to the resplendent foliage. Propagate boxwood through stem cuttings or layering to produce plants identical to the parent.

Harsh afternoon sun combined with strong winter winds may scorch boxwood leaves bronze. Burlap wrapping from late fall until after the danger of frost can prevent such damage. Thin outer branches to increase light and circulation. Use pruned clippings as nutritional mulch.

Bring this time-honored plant to your garden and plant a bit of history. Learn about boxwood and other gardening favorites through online educational resources or local garden centers.

Kristi Hendricks is a graduate of Shepherd College and West Virginia University and a Master Gardener with the Virginia Cooperative Extension. She can be reached at belowthejames@yahoo.com.