Boxwood trees, with their compact forms, evergreen foliage, and ability to withstand heavy pruning, have long been a staple in landscaping. However, the widespread distribution and popularity of boxwood trees raise questions about their suitability in modern landscapes. With increasing awareness about the importance of native plants and their benefits for wildlife and ecosystems, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative evergreen shrubs to replace boxwood.
While boxwoods are favored for their resilience and versatility, they are not without their challenges. One of the major threats to boxwood trees is boxwood blight, a disease caused by a bacterial pathogen that has spread to over 30 states in the USA. In addition to blight, boxwoods are susceptible to other issues such as powdery mildew, root dieback, leaf spot, and winter burn. These challenges highlight the need to consider alternative native evergreen shrubs that offer similar aesthetic appeal but with added ecological benefits.
Native shrubs under 3 feet tall can be used for short hedges, foundation plantings, and stand-alone specimens. Kalm’s St. John’s Wort (Hypericum kalmianum) is a compact shrub with cheerful yellow blossoms that attract bees and butterflies. It thrives in a variety of soil conditions and is deer-resistant, making it a versatile addition to gardens. Another alternative is ‘Abbott’s Pygmy’ Dwarf Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), a miniature form of Canadian hemlock that is well-suited for shaded areas and small spaces.
For larger specimens over 3 feet tall, Curl-Leaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius) is a rugged evergreen shrub that thrives in dry, rocky conditions. It can be shaped into a formal hedge or left to grow naturally as a small tree, adding ornamental interest to the landscape. Evergreen Huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum) is another native shrub that offers glossy foliage, seasonal color changes, and edible berries that attract birds and wildlife. These larger specimens provide privacy screens, windbreaks, and background shrubs in the garden.
Coastal Leucothoe (Leucothoe axillaris) is a weeping shrub with arching branches that adds beauty to woodland gardens and shaded slopes. It features dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers, making it an attractive option for erosion control and hedging. ‘Shamrock’ Inkberry (Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’) is a compact shrub with dense foliage that is ideal for foundation plantings and low hedges. It produces white flowers that attract pollinators and black fruits that provide food for wildlife.
In conclusion, while boxwood trees have been a popular choice in landscaping for their aesthetic appeal and versatility, their susceptibility to diseases and limited ecological benefits raise concerns about their widespread use. By exploring alternative native evergreen shrubs, gardeners can create beautiful, sustainable landscapes that support local wildlife and ecosystems. Whether for short hedges or larger privacy screens, there are native alternatives to boxwood that offer both beauty and ecological value.
