About

Buxus microphylla Golden Dream ('Peergold' PBR) is a small, evergreen shrub that grows slowly and maintains a rounded shape. Its foliage features a dense arrangement of vibrant green leaves, which are highlighted by golden margins. During colder months or in intense sunlight, the leaves may take on a slight bronze hue. This plant is well-suited for container gardening on patios or balconies, and it also works effectively as a low hedge.

About the genus

Buxus consists of evergreen shrubs or diminutive trees characterized by simple, leathery leaves arranged oppositely. These plants produce clusters of small, pale yellow blooms, which are succeeded by fruits that transition from pale green to brown.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Plant type

Shrubs

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.5-1 metres

Time to full height

5-10 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Toxicity

Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil. Prefers light shade, full sun may result in dull or scorched foliage in dry soils. Water regularly while establishing. See box cultivation for more detailed advice

Pruning

Pruning group 8 in summer, renovation pruning can be carried out in late spring. Use mulch and a general fertiliser after hard pruning

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to box tree caterpillar, box sucker, mussel scale and red spider mite

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to a leaf spot, box blight and, rarely, honey fungus