Buxus sempervirens Handsworthii - Field-Grown
Buxus sempervirens Handsworthii is a vigorous, upright-growing cultivar with deep green, slightly larger leaves than the common English Box. Renowned for its strong growth and dense branching, it is an excellent choice for taller hedges and structured screens while still responding well to shaping and regular trimming.
Ideal for formal, classical, and structured garden styles, this cultivar suits hedging, topiary, and boundary planting where a more substantial presence is desired.
Performs best in full sun to part shade, in well-drained soil with moderate moisture. For hedging, space 40–50 cm apart to allow for strong, even growth.
Mature size: Grows to approximately 2–2.5 metres high and 1.5 metres wide if left untrimmed, forming a robust, upright shrub.
Field-grown plants are grown directly in open fields, enabling their roots to spread and develop naturally, resulting in larger size, established root systems, and increased resilience. When transporting these plants, hessian, a coarse fabric made from natural fibres like jute, is commonly used to wrap their roots, providing protection during transportation and handling.
Trimming: Trim lightly in late spring to shape and encourage dense, upright growth. Ideal for taller hedging or structural planting, it may benefit from a second trim in late summer. Avoid pruning too late in the season to reduce frost damage on new growth.
Deadheading: Not applicable, as this cultivar is prized for its evergreen foliage rather than flowers.
Fertilising: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support strong, steady growth. Avoid overfeeding with high-nitrogen fertilisers, which can result in leggy or sappy shoots.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase and during extended dry periods. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, particularly in heavy soils or containers.
Pest Control: Monitor for Buxus psyllid and leafminer—distorted or cupped leaves are common signs. Treat promptly with horticultural oil or a systemic insecticide if pests are present.
Disease Management: Susceptible to Buxus blight and root rot. Watch for blackened leaves, sudden defoliation, and dark streaks on stems. Promote airflow, avoid overhead watering, and remove any affected growth immediately. Apply a fungicide if blight is identified.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
