The History of Boxwood

Boxwood has long been cultivated in Europe and was introduced to North America in the mid-1600s. It became very popular in the U.S. in the 19th century, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region. The two most common varieties found in the U.S. today are Buxus sempervirens (often called “American boxwood”) and Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ (often referred to as “English boxwood”). However, these are far from the only varieties out there. In fact, there are 97 species and 261 cultivars of boxwood and their appearances and characteristics can vary quite widely! The first boxwood planted in the United States was placed at Sylvester Manor on Shelter Island in New York around 1653 and made its way over on a boat from Amsterdam. Today, boxwood can be seen in many parts of the country and is often used for simple ornamentation or privacy hedges. Boxwood is also frequently used for specialty gardening practices such as topiary and bonsai. One of the largest collections of boxwood plants in the U.S. is at the Virginia State Arboretum in Boyce, Virginia. Today, boxwood remains a popular and beloved source of greenery throughout the United States and beyond.