Buxus sempervirens 'Aureovariegata'

'Aureovariegata' variegated boxwood is a woody, broadleaf, evergreen, perennial shrub cultivar in the Buxaceae (Boxwood) family. Buxus is the Latin name for boxwood or box tree. The common name of boxwood refers to the wood used to make carved decorative boxes.

'Aureovariegata' has showy dark green leaves with margins that start out white turning cream and then yellow throughout the growing season.  The leaves really make this shrub stand out in the landscape especially in shadier corners.  A mounding habit, dense and rounded, with a slow growth rate and dimensions of 8 to 10 feet high and wide, make this cultivar ideal for shaping into a formal hedge or topiary.  It will grow best in sandy to clay, neutral to acidic soils, with good drainage, and in a site that receives full sun or partial shade.

Protect from winds and full winter sun by placing in a location where these conditions are limited. Winter winds can cause dehydration and bronzing. Morning sun is best. Remove any accumulated snow to protect the branches. It is moderately drought tolerant once established. Propagate variegated boxwood by seed or stem cuttings.

Boxwoods, in general, are tolerant of pruning, however, pruning should be done after the last frost as it will lead to tender new shoots. Its shallow roots should be protected with a layer of mulch. Limit cultivation around these shallow roots because it can damage the plant. 

Landscaping options include containers, lawn or meadows, walkways, slopes, and naturalized areas. Boxwoods do well in cottage, English, winter, and drought-tolerant gardens. They can be used as a foundation planting or mass planting.

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves oval to elliptic bright green with creamy golden-yellow margins.
• Bark is grayish brown.
• Stems are square with distinct corners.
• On the underside of the leaf, the midrib is cottony.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Boxwood mites, boxwood leafminers, leaf scorch. 

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common boxwood insect pests and diseases.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Buxus sempervirens.