Boxwood Cottage

I’m not sure when I first fell in love with beautiful boxwoods, but I can tell you I have fallen hard for them. My favorite variety is an American (buxus sempervirens). I love their deep green waxy leaves , the small tiny blooms that appear early spring, I love the peculiar fragrance that they have, and I think they look great as a wreath at Christmas. I know , that sounds so strange , but the fact remains, I find them beautiful all the way around.This variety is considered a classic and I am grateful for the ones we have been able to plant on our property . Over the years I added other boxwood varieties such as green velvet and green mountains. The green velvets are fast growing and good to grow close together for a “pillowy” effect or as a low hedge as they do not get very tall.  The green mountains grow taller and are great for anchoring a corner, growing together for a hedge, or using in a container.

When we first moved into our home there was not one of these lovely shrubs to be found anywhere, but now after 12 years here, we have planted over 200 which is why decided to give the property a name….Boxwood Cottage. We have used the boxwoods as a border for so many areas.They have done a wonderful job creating and defining part of the yard that I refer to as the “outdoor room”. I love to also use them in containers to act as a base for other potted plants to snuggle up to. I think when they accompany roses, hydrangeas, ferns, hostas, or herbs and veggies they act as a quiet highlight. They aren’t there to to be showy but rather to ground everything else that is happening around them.

Every door you walk in or out of at my house you will be greeted by an unassuming boxwood, and even though you might not notice them, they have a purpose, they create a warm welcome for all passersby.