Green Pillar Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens 'Green Pillar')

Boxwood 'Green Pillar' is a cultivar of the common boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) known for its upright, columnar growth habit. Here are some key characteristics and care tips for Boxwood 'Green Pillar':

Form: 'Green Pillar' is prized for its dense, narrow, and upright growth habit, making it an excellent choice for vertical accents, hedges, and formal gardens. It typically maintains a compact columnar shape without the need for extensive pruning.

Foliage: The foliage of 'Green Pillar' is evergreen, featuring small, glossy, dark green leaves that retain their color year-round. The leaves are oval-shaped and densely packed along the stems, giving the plant a lush appearance.

Size: This cultivar typically reaches a mature height of around 5 to 7 feet (1.5 to 2.1 meters) with a spread of about 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters). Its narrow form makes it well-suited for use in narrow spaces or as a vertical accent in mixed borders.

Sunlight: Boxwood 'Green Pillar' thrives in partial to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but may become more open and leggy in shadier conditions.

Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for the health of 'Green Pillar.' Amend heavy or compacted soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Boxwoods prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot and dry periods. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is typically required to maintain the columnar shape of 'Green Pillar.' Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreen shrubs in early spring. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates and timing.

Landscape Use: Boxwood 'Green Pillar' is versatile and can be used in a variety of landscape settings. It works well as a formal hedge, a vertical accent in mixed borders, or as a specimen plant in containers or entryways.

Overall, Boxwood 'Green Pillar' is prized for its narrow, upright growth habit, dense foliage, and versatility in the landscape. With proper care and growing conditions, it can provide years of beauty and structure in the garden.