Fastigiata Boxwood: A Versatile Evergreen for Your Landscape
Introduction
Buxus sempervirens Fastigiata, commonly known as Fastigiata boxwood, is a popular ornamental shrub prized for its narrow, conical shape and versatility in the landscape. Whether you’re looking to create a formal hedge, a solitary specimen plant, or a topiary masterpiece, Fastigiata boxwood is an excellent choice.
Growth Characteristics
Fastigiata boxwood is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can live up to 40 years or more with proper care. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 8 and adapts well to container living. Unlike other boxwood varieties, Fastigiata has an upright growth pattern that resembles a tree, with multi-stemmed branches that retain dense foliage from the ground up. Untrimmed, these shrubs develop a pyramid shape with a mature size of 10 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide.
Foliage
Fastigiata boxwood boasts attractive, glossy, oval leaves that emerge bright green and mature to a characteristic dark blue-green hue. In northern climates, the foliage may turn bronze due to harsh weather conditions. New foliage is particularly susceptible to cold damage.
Planting and Care
Fastigiata boxwood prefers sunny to partly sunny locations, but it can tolerate some shade. It adapts well to slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soils but requires well-drained conditions. Avoid planting in low-lying areas or areas with poor drainage, as this can lead to root rot.
Water your Fastigiata boxwood regularly, especially during periods of drought. Supplemental watering may be necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning
Fastigiata boxwood responds well to pruning, making it suitable for various landscaping applications. You can prune it to maintain a formal hedge, shape it into topiary forms, or simply remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning also helps to promote bushier growth.
Benefits
Fastigiata boxwood offers several benefits for gardeners:
- Versatile: Can be used for hedges, specimens, topiary, and bonsai.
- Evergreen: Provides year-round interest in the landscape.
- Slow-growing: Requires minimal maintenance.
- Hardy: Tolerates a wide range of climates and conditions.
- Heat tolerant: Can withstand hot, dry summers.
- Drought tolerant: Can survive periods of low rainfall.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: Unpalatable to these common pests.
- Pollution tolerant: Thrives in urban environments.
Uses in Landscape Design
Fastigiata boxwood is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscape designs:
- Hedges: Formal hedges can define property lines, create privacy screening, or add structure to a garden.
- Specimen plants: Solitary Fastigiata boxwood shrubs can serve as focal points in the landscape or accentuate entryways.
- Topiary: The dense foliage and upright growth habit of Fastigiata boxwood make it ideal for topiary, allowing you to create unique and eye-catching shapes.
- Bonsai: With proper care and training, Fastigiata boxwood can be grown as a beautiful and miniature bonsai specimen.
Conclusion
Fastigiata boxwood is a versatile and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that adds beauty and functionality to any landscape. Its narrow, conical shape, attractive foliage, and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.
