Buxus sempervirens 'Dee Runk'

– Not a major wildlife attractant

– Deer may nibble if hungry but usually avoided due to bitter foliage

– Dense foliage can provide shelter for small birds or insects

– Evergreen – year-round structure and color

– Spring: Subtle bloom, new growth begins

– Summer: Holds form with little maintenance

– Fall/Winter: Retains deep green color; excellent in winter gardens

Formal vertical accent, foundation planting, containers, hedging, topiary, entrance framing, mixed evergreen borders

– Small, glossy, dark green leaves

– Evergreen; provides year-round structure and color

– Dense, fine-textured foliage ideal for formal gardens

– Small, yellow-green flowers in spring

– Not showy or fragrant; often go unnoticed

– Occasionally attracts small pollinators

– Site selection: Choose a location with well-drained soil and good air circulation

– Soil prep: Enrich heavy clay or sandy soil with organic compost to improve structure and water retention

– Planting depth: Plant at the same depth it was growing in the container; avoid burying the crown

– Spacing: Space 2 to 4 feet apart, depending on whether you want a hedge or specimen effect

– Planting time: Early spring or fall is ideal for establishment

– Time: Late spring to early summer after new growth appears

– Style: Responds well to shaping; often used for topiary, hedging, or formal structure

– Lightly trim 1–2 times a year to maintain shape and density

– Avoid heavy pruning late in the season to prevent winter damage to tender new growth

– Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots

– Once established, fairly drought tolerant, but prefers consistent moisture

– Avoid soggy soil; use mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature

– Full sun to part shade

– Performs well in morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch

– Too much shade may reduce density and slow growth

– Not grown for harvest

– May be clipped for greenery in floral arrangements or winter décor

– Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring

– Avoid over-fertilizing; too much nitrogen can lead to excessive soft growth and winter damage

– Incorporate compost annually to improve soil health

– Pollination type: Self-pollinating (monoecious)

– Pollinators: Inconspicuous flowers may attract occasional small bees or flies, but pollination is not critical to landscape performance

‘Dee Runk’ has a tall, narrow, columnar form that makes it excellent as a formal vertical accent. It pairs well with:

– Hydrangea macrophylla or paniculata – Seasonal bloomers with soft, rounded forms

– Hosta varieties – Foliage contrast for part-shade plantings

– Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Colorful low-growing companions for underplanting

– Salvia nemorosa – Textural and color contrast in sunny borders

– Lavandula (Lavender) – Drought-tolerant, aromatic partner in full sun

– Ferns and Carex – Great contrast in woodland edges or shaded borders

– Perennials like Astilbe or Echinacea – Add bloom and seasonal interest