Buxus hybrid 'Calgary' - Calgary Boxwood

• Growth Rate: Slow to Medium; 'Calgary' grows steadily, adding several inches per year.
• Mature Size: Reaches a height and spread of 3-5 feet, making it suitable for low hedges, borders, or topiary forms.

Buxus hybrid 'Calgary' is not particularly noted for attracting wildlife. However, the dense foliage may provide shelter for small birds and insects. The plant does not produce significant nectar or fruit to attract wildlife.

• Flowering Season: 'Calgary' is grown primarily for its foliage rather than its flowers. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in early spring (March to April) that are not particularly ornamental.
• Seasonality: As an evergreen, 'Calgary' retains its lush green foliage throughout the year, providing consistent color and structure in the garden.

Low formal hedges – Excellent for edging walkways, garden beds, and borders

Foundation plantings – Neat form and evergreen foliage enhance structural appeal

Topiary or shaped forms – Perfect for small balls, cones, or geometric designs

Container planting – Suitable for year-round interest in large outdoor pots

Cold-climate landscapes – Bred for Canadian winters, thrives where other boxwoods struggle

Mixed shrub borders – Provides evergreen contrast to deciduous companions

The leaves of 'Calgary' are small, ovate, and dark green with a glossy texture. The dense foliage creates a lush, uniform appearance that is ideal for formal settings and structured garden designs.

The flowers are small, pale green, and not particularly showy. They appear in early spring but are largely overshadowed by the plant’s foliage.

• Planting Season: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are milder. This allows the plant to establish its roots before extreme weather conditions.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil with moderate fertility. It can tolerate a range of soil types but thrives in soil with good drainage.
• Spacing: Space plants 3-5 feet apart, depending on the desired hedge or design to accommodate their mature size and ensure proper air circulation.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Amend the soil with organic matter if necessary to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Place the plant at the same level it was growing in the pot, and backfill with soil.
4. Water thoroughly and apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Prune 'Calgary' in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages dense, healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim to achieve the desired form.

'Calgary' requires consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods. Water deeply to ensure the soil is moist but well-drained. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

This boxwood thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate up to 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day but will also grow well in light shade, making it versatile for different garden conditions.

Prune 'Calgary' in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages dense, healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim to achieve the desired form.

Fertilize 'Calgary' in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive, spindly growth. A light application once a year is typically sufficient.

• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Winter Care:'Calgary' is hardy but may benefit from winter mulch in colder climates to protect roots from extreme frost. In harsh winter conditions, protect the plant from strong winds and desiccating cold.

Self-pollinating

Flowers:

• Small, greenish-yellow, inconspicuous
  
• Bloom in early spring
  
• Not ornamental but functional
  
  Pollination Method: Primarily wind-pollinated, with minimal insect activity
  
  Pollinator Attraction: Low

Pair Buxus 'Calgary' with plants that either contrast its compact form or complement its evergreen appeal:

🌸 Flowering Companions

• Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ – Large summer blooms above neat boxwood mounds
  
• Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ – Purple-blue spikes add contrast and seasonal color
  
• Echinacea purpurea – Summer bloomers that soften formal boxwood edges
  
• Lavandula angustifolia – Aromatic foliage with similar growing conditions and formality
  

🌾 Foliage & Texture Companions

• Heuchera varieties – Add low-growing color and leaf contrast at the base
  
• Carex ‘Evergold’ – Grassy texture plays well off boxwood’s density
  
• Ilex crenata ‘Compacta’ – Pairs seamlessly in formal or Japanese-inspired designs
  
• Helleborus (Lenten Rose) – Ideal for partial shade areas and winter-to-spring bloom interest