Buxus hybrid 'Green Ice' - Green Ice Boxwood

Buxus hybrid 'Green Ice' does not specifically attract wildlife due to its lack of significant flowers or fruit. However, its dense foliage can provide shelter for small birds and insects.

• Flowering Season: 'Green Ice' produces small, inconspicuous flowers in early spring (March to April), but they are not significant in terms of ornamental value.
• Seasonality: As an evergreen, 'Green Ice' maintains its lush green foliage throughout the year, providing consistent color and structure in the garden.

Low formal or informal hedging – Ideal for walkways, borders, and bed edging

Foundation plantings – Dense, evergreen form provides year-round architectural interest

Container gardens – Excellent for pots and planters in all seasons

Topiary or shaped forms – Compact and responds well to pruning for spheres or cones

Mixed borders – Adds structure and evergreen contrast to seasonal bloomers

Cold-hardy landscapes – Performs well in colder zones with minimal winter bronzing

The leaves of 'Green Ice' are small, rounded, and have a deep green color with a glossy sheen. The dense foliage forms a compact, rounded shape that adds a touch of refinement and structure to any garden design.

The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and not particularly showy. They appear in early spring but are overshadowed by the plant’s attractive foliage.

• Planting Season: Best planted in spring or fall. This timing allows the plant to establish its roots before the onset of extreme weather conditions.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Tolerates a range of soil types but thrives in soil with good drainage.
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart 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 'Green Ice' 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.

Green Ice' requires consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods. Water deeply to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot.

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can handle up to 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day but also grows well in light shade, making it adaptable to different garden conditions.

Since 'Green Ice' is grown primarily for its foliage, no significant harvesting is required. Maintain the plant through regular pruning to shape and keep it healthy.

Fertilize 'Green Ice' in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth or diminished foliage color. 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: 'Green Ice' 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.

Pollination Type: Monoecious – both male and female flowers appear on the same plant

Flowers:

• Small, greenish-yellow
  
• Bloom in early spring
  
• Not showy, often unnoticed
  

Pollination Method: Wind-pollinated, with minimal pollinator interaction

Pollinator Attraction: Low – not a significant nectar or pollen plant

🌸 Flowering Companions

• Salvia nemorosa – Deep violet spires contrast the dense green foliage
  
• Hydrangea ‘Little Lime’ – Rounded form and blooms pair well in partial shade
  
• Geranium ‘Rozanne’ – Cascading blue-purple flowers soften formal boxwood shapes
  
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Aromatic and ideal for sunny borders with similar structure
  

🌾 Foliage & Texture Companions

• Heuchera ‘Amber Waves’ or ‘Obsidian’ – Colorful foliage provides a vibrant base
  
• Carex ‘Feather Falls’ – Softens edges with variegated, arching leaves
  
• Hosta varieties – Ideal under taller shrubs or in part-shade locations
  
• Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’ – Adds upright form to contrast with the rounded Buxus shape