The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: silver common boxwood, Elegantissima common boxwood

Family: Buxaceae (boxwood family)

Distribution: Species native to Europe, n. Africa and w. Asia

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen shrub

Comments: A striking variegated form, grown in Europe since the mid-19th century. In warmer climates will reach 7' tall and wide. Evergreen leaves are creamy white mixed with green. Flowers open in March or April as tiny yellowish white clusters that are exceedingly fragrant. Fruits ripen as small, gray-brown capsules. Resists deer and rabbit attacks and is relatively disease and pest free. Tolerates pruning and can be hedged effectively.