Growing Hydrangeas in Pots: Choosing Varieties, Planting and Care
Hydrangeas grow well in pots when the variety, container and compost are chosen with their eventual size and moisture needs in mind. Learn how to plant, water, feed and protect...
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Buxus sempervirens
Box Topiary Spiral
Buxus sempervirens, common box, is a dense evergreen shrub with small glossy dark green leaves that respond exceptionally well to clipping, which is why it remains associated with formal hedging and topiary. Unclipped plants can eventually become substantial shrubs, but regular trimming keeps them compact. It is very hardy and grows best in well-drained soil, particularly in partial shade.
✅ Dense evergreen foliage clips cleanly into hedges and topiary
✅ Very hardy and tolerant of a wide range of soils
⚠️ Susceptible to box blight and box tree caterpillar
Plant Details
Size
- Max Height
- 4.0 m — 8.0 m
- Max Spread
- 4.0 m — 8.0 m
- Growth Habit
- Densely branched plant with compact, leafy, rounded overall shape.
Planting Position
- Sunlight Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.
- Full Shade Part Shade
- Aspect Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.
- North South East West
- Exposure Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.
- Exposed / Sheltered
- Hardiness Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.
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(−20 to −15 °C) Very cold-hardy
Ideal Soil Conditions
- Soil Type Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.
- Soil Moisture Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.
- Moist but permeable / Free draining
- Soil pH Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.
Plant Uses & Merits
- Uses
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- Patios / Courtyards
- Containers
- Hedging / Screening
- Merits
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- Loved By Pollinators
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Best Hydrangeas for Small Gardens
Small gardens can accommodate hydrangeas very well when mature size and habit are considered from the outset. Compare compact mophead, panicle, oakleaf and lacecap choices that give substantial summer interest...
