Description

Buxus Graham Blandy Upright is a distinctive, fastigiate boxwood with a naturally tight, vertical habit—often maturing into a living column. Its small, glossy, dark-green leaves are held densely along the stems, producing a refined, architectural look year-round. In spring it bears tiny, inconspicuous, creamy-green flowers that may draw a gentle hum of pollinators. This cultivar shines where space is limited or a strong line is desired: punctuating entryways, framing vistas, or anchoring mixed borders with evergreen structure. It tolerates a range of light and soils, responding well to light, periodic shearing to maintain a pencil-slim silhouette.

Suggested Uses

Plant Details

• Botanical NameBuxus Graham Blandy Upright (often sold as Buxus sempervirens 'Graham Blandy')
• Common NameBuxus Graham Blandy; Graham Blandy Boxwood
• Size & GrowthTypically 6–10 ft tall and 1–2.5 ft wide; naturally narrow, columnar habit; responds well to light shaping.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 5–8 (best performance in 6–8; provide wind protection and winter moisture management in colder sites).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen broadleaf with small, glossy, dark-green leaves; may bronze slightly in winter winds/sun.
• Bloom TimeSpring (usually April–May); flowers are tiny and not showy but lightly fragrant to pollinators.
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; about 3–6 inches per year with good conditions and care.
• Light RequirementsFull sun to partial shade; in hotter climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch/bronzing.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes—spring blooms offer nectar and pollen for bees and small beneficial insects (modest attraction).
• Indoor FriendlyPrimarily an outdoor shrub; not suited as a long-term houseplant. Best in outdoor containers or beds.
• Container FriendlyExcellent in large containers; choose well-drained mix and protect roots from severe winter cold/wind.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant; occasional browsing possible when food is scarce.
• Pet WarningAll parts mildly toxic if ingested; may cause vomiting/diarrhea. Sap can irritate skin—wear gloves if sensitive.
• FragrantFlowers have a light, honeyed scent in spring; foliage odor is resinous when bruised.
• Cut FlowerNot a cut flower plant; however, stems/foliage are long-lasting in wreaths and arrangements.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Hydrangea, Hellebores, Heuchera, Japanese Forest Grass, Hostas (in part shade), small ornamental grasses, roses, and spring bulbs—plants that appreciate well-drained, evenly moist soils.