Genus guide
Buxus — 11 species
Buxus (boxwood) is the workhorse of formal hedging and topiary, offering dense, small-leaved evergreen foliage that clips into crisp shapes year-round. Common box, Japanese box, Faulkner box, and Korean box all prefer a position in full sun to partial shade with regular, moderate watering — they tolerate dry periods once established but sulk in waterlogged ground. All Buxus species are toxic to cats and dogs; the leaves and bark contain steroidal alkaloids, including buxine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in large doses more serious neurological symptoms.
All Buxus species we cover
- Balearic box
- Common box
- Common Boxwood 'Suffruticosa'
- Faulkner box
- Franklin's Gem Boxwood
- Green Gem Boxwood
- Green Velvet Boxwood
- Japanese box
- Korean box
- Winter Gem Boxwood
- Wintergreen Boxwood
Buxus — frequently asked questions
Are Buxus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Buxus are not pet-safe. Of the 11 Buxus species in the Growli library, 11 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Buxus plants need?
Most Buxus do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Buxus easy to care for?
Buxus are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Buxus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 11 Buxus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Buxus, the rest follow closely.
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