Large Buxus sempervirens Topiary Ball | 35cm

Buxus sempervirens, or Common Box, is the classic evergreen used for traditional topiary. Clipped into a substantial rounded ball, its dense mass of small, glossy green leaves brings instant structure to entrances, patios, terraces and gardens throughout the year.

Supplied in a generous 27cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 55cm overall height, with a clipped ball measuring around 35cm across, this larger specimen has real presence. It looks particularly impressive displayed in a substantial outdoor planter, used as a matching pair either side of a doorway, or positioned among softer planting to introduce strong architectural shape.

Position & Light

Buxus sempervirens is a versatile outdoor plant that grows well in sun or partial shade. A position with some shelter from strong drying winds and intense afternoon sunshine will help keep the foliage looking its best.

It is fully hardy across the UK and can remain outdoors throughout the year.

Watering

Keep the compost evenly moist but never waterlogged. Large container-grown Buxus still needs regular checking, particularly during warm, dry or windy weather.

Water thoroughly when the upper layer of compost begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain freely. Continue checking the plant during winter, particularly if it is positioned beneath an overhang where rainfall may not reach the compost.

Feeding

Feed during spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser to support dense, healthy green growth. A slow-release feed applied in spring works particularly well for plants being kept permanently in containers.

If planted into the garden, an annual spring feed and mulch will usually be sufficient once established.

Pruning & Maintaining the Shape

Your Buxus arrives already clipped into its classic rounded topiary shape. Lightly trim fresh growth during summer to maintain a crisp, even outline.

One main trim each year is generally sufficient, although a second light tidy can be carried out later in summer if needed. Avoid pruning during very hot, bright weather, when newly exposed foliage can scorch.

Growing in a Container

This larger topiary is ideal for displaying in a substantial outdoor planter. You can initially place the nursery pot directly inside a decorative container, provided excess water can drain freely.

For longer-term growth, repot into a slightly larger container with good drainage using a loam-based, free-draining compost. Avoid moving immediately into an excessively large planter, as too much wet compost around the roots can cause problems.

Planting in the Garden

Buxus can also be planted directly into the ground where it will provide permanent evergreen structure. Choose reasonably well-drained soil and plant at approximately the same depth as it was growing in the nursery pot.

Water regularly during the first growing season while the root system becomes established.

Box Blight & Box Tree Caterpillar

Like all Buxus, Common Box can be affected by box blight and box tree caterpillar. Check the foliage occasionally for unusual browning, bare patches, webbing or caterpillar damage so that any problem can be identified early.

Good airflow, sensible watering and avoiding repeatedly wetting the foliage will help keep container-grown plants healthy.

Why You'll Love It

• Large, established evergreen topiary with immediate impact
• Approx. 35cm diameter clipped ball
• Approx. 55cm overall height
• Classic choice for doorways, terraces and patios
• Looks particularly striking displayed as a matching pair
• Provides year-round architectural structure
• Suitable for large containers or planting in the garden
• Fully hardy across the UK

Pet & Child Safety

Buxus sempervirens is harmful if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children and discourage chewing or ingestion. We also recommend washing your hands after pruning or handling cut foliage.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Buxus sempervirens
Common Name: Common Box / Boxwood
Family: Buxaceae
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub / topiary
Nursery Pot Size: 27cm diameter
Approximate Overall Height: Around 55cm
Approximate Ball Diameter: Around 35cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 30cm+
Growth Habit: Dense / clipped ball
Position: Sun or partial shade
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK
Use: Outdoor containers, entrances, terraces and garden planting

Local Delivery & Collection

Due to its size, this larger Buxus topiary is available for collection from our Edinburgh shop or local hand delivery within Edinburgh only. It is not suitable for standard UK postal delivery.

Please note: As this is a living plant and each topiary is individually grown and clipped, the exact height, width, density and shape will naturally vary slightly.