Highlander Boxwood


Highlander Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Highlander')
Highlander Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Highlander') is a vigorous, upright evergreen prized for its fast growth and tall, columnar habit. Bred for height and resilience, it brings strong vertical structure to landscapes while maintaining dense foliage that stays green throughout the year. This makes it an excellent choice for privacy, hedging, and formal garden accents where quick, reliable results are desired.
Distinctive Features
Highlander matures at 9 to 12 feet tall with a narrow spread of 2 to 3 feet, creating a striking vertical form. Its dark green leaves retain their rich color with minimal winter bronzing, even in colder climates. Under ideal conditions, it can grow as much as 24 inches per year, setting it apart as one of the fastest-growing upright boxwoods available.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; partial shade is beneficial in hot regions to prevent leaf scorch.
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; amend clay or compacted sites for best root health.
- Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply during dry periods.
- Humidity: Adaptable to varying humidity levels when planted in well-ventilated sites.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8; dependable in northern and central U.S. landscapes.
Ideal Uses
- Focal Point Plantings: Naturally upright form creates strong vertical impact in gardens.
- Tall Hedges and Screens: Excellent for privacy or windbreaks in narrow planting areas.
- Foundation Plantings: Adds height and definition around entryways and large structures.
- Container Plantings: Performs well in large planters for patios, terraces, and courtyards.
- Formal Borders: Complements symmetrical and traditional garden designs.
Low Maintenance Care
Highlander Boxwood maintains its form and color with straightforward care. Occasional trimming keeps its shape tidy, while mulching and watering support long-term vigor.
- Watering: Deep water during extended dry spells, especially in the first few years.
- Pruning: Light pruning in late spring or summer maintains its columnar shape; suitable for topiary work.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Shows good overall resistance when grown in well-drained soils with good airflow.
- Winter Care: Holds foliage color well through cold months; mulch base to protect roots.
Why Choose Highlander Boxwood?
Highlander Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Highlander') combines rapid growth with an elegant upright form, making it one of the best choices for tall hedging and vertical design elements.
- Fast Growth: Adds height quickly, often up to 2 feet per year.
- Columnar Habit: Narrow form provides structure without taking up excess space.
- Evergreen Reliability: Deep green foliage holds color through winter with minimal bronzing.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to shape and maintain with occasional care.
- Privacy Solution: Ideal for screens and tall hedges in residential and formal settings.
For landscapes that demand rapid growth, vertical elegance, and evergreen dependability, Highlander Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Highlander') is a standout choice.

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