RedCrocus Buxus 'Franklin's Gem' Ball - Live Evergreen Boxwood Shrub for Low Hedges, Topiary and Containers, Cold-Hardy USDA 5-9 5 Gallon Nursery Pot
RedCrocus Buxus 'Franklin's Gem' Ball - Live Evergreen Boxwood Shrub for Low Hedges, Topiary and Containers, Cold-Hardy USDA 5-9 5 Gallon Nursery Pot
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$200.00 USD
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$260.00 USD
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$200.00 USD
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SKU:ber5d7d-redcrocus
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Buxus Franklins Gem Ball
A compact, naturally rounded boxwood prized for tight form, glossy evergreen foliage, and year‑round structure.
Evergreen | Compact | Formal Structure
Description
Buxus Franklins Gem Ball is a selection of littleleaf boxwood known for its dense, naturally spherical habit and fine-textured, glossy green foliage that holds rich color through winter with minimal bronzing. Often referenced alongside Buxus microphylla ‘Franklin’s Gem’, this ball form is ideal for low, formal structure without heavy shearing. Slow to moderate growth makes it easy to maintain as refined spheres, edging, or containers.
In spring, tiny yellow‑green flowers may appear and are subtly fragrant, occasionally attracting early pollinators. Durable, deer‑resistant, and long‑lived, it delivers four-season interest in both classic and contemporary landscapes.
Suggested Uses
- Foundation plantings
- Low formal hedges & knot gardens
- Topiary balls & parterres
- Container specimens (entryways, patios)
- Mixed borders for evergreen structure
- Pathway edging and courtyard accents
- Year‑round winter interest
Plant Details
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Botanical NameBuxus Franklins Gem Ball
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Common NameBuxus Franklins Gem
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Size & GrowthTypically 2–3 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide; naturally rounded; easily maintained at 18–24 in with light seasonal shearing. Slow to moderate vigor (about 2–4 in/yr).
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Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 5–9 (protect from harsh winter wind/sun in colder sites).
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Foliage TypeBroadleaf evergreen; small, glossy, fine-textured leaves with minimal winter bronzing when sited well.
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Bloom TimeSpring (often April–May); tiny yellow‑green flowers are inconspicuous but lightly fragrant.
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Growth RateSlow to moderate; maintains tight, compact habit with minimal pruning.
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Light RequirementsFull sun to partial shade; best color and winter performance in morning sun with afternoon shade in hot or exposed sites.
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Attracts PollinatorsLow; spring blooms may draw a few early bees but are not a major nectar source.
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Indoor FriendlyNot recommended as a long-term houseplant; prefers outdoor conditions and seasonal temperature swings.
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Container FriendlyExcellent in containers; insulate pots or shelter roots in winter in colder zones (especially 5–6).
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Deer ResistantYes—generally avoided by deer due to aromatic foliage.
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Pet WarningToxic if ingested (dogs, cats, livestock); may cause gastrointestinal upset—plant out of reach of grazers.
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FragrantSubtle fragrance from spring blooms; foliage has a distinct scent when bruised.
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Cut FlowerBest as cut foliage; long‑lasting stems for arrangements, wreaths, and topiary work.
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Grows Well WithGrows Well With Hellebores, Heuchera, Hosta, Hydrangea, Japanese maple, ferns, Hakonechloa, spring bulbs, and low perennials that contrast its form.
Care Tips
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Planting InstructionsDig a hole 2× the width of the root ball and no deeper than its height. Tease circling roots, set the crown level with the surrounding soil, backfill with native soil amended 10–20% with compost, and water to settle. Space 24–36 in apart for individual balls or low hedging.
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Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist the first growing season; ~1 in water/week. Once established, moderately drought tolerant. Avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage especially in winter.
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Soil TypeWell‑drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates clay with improved drainage. pH 6.5–7.5 preferred; add lime if soil is strongly acidic.
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HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is ideal. Provide airflow and water at the base to reduce leaf wetness and disease pressure.
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Pruning InstructionsLightly shear after the spring flush (late May–June) to refine the ball shape; touch up mid‑summer if needed. Avoid heavy pruning after early August. In late winter, thin 1–3 older stems inside the plant to improve airflow.
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Winter CareMulch 2–3 in over the root zone (not against stems). Water deeply before ground freeze. In windy or reflective sites, use a burlap screen to limit winter burn. Container plants: insulate pots or move to a sheltered, unheated space just above freezing; water sparingly.
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Planting DepthSet the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil; do not bury the trunk flare. In containers, keep 1 in of headspace below the rim for watering.
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FertilizationApply a slow‑release, balanced or boxwood‑specific fertilizer in early spring at label rates; supplement annually with compost. Avoid high nitrogen and do not fertilize after midsummer.
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Special CareMonitor for boxwood leafminer, psyllid, and blight. Sanitize shears between plants, ensure spacing for airflow, avoid overhead irrigation, and maintain mulch. Protect from winter wind and reflected heat; rotate containers periodically for even sun exposure.