Boxwood has long been a staple in landscaping for its evergreen foliage and elegant appearance. However, due to issues such as boxwood blight and poor soil conditions, many homeowners and landscapers are seeking alternatives. Fortunately, there are several evergreen plants that offer similar beauty and functionality without the drawbacks of boxwood.
Rhododendron spp. (Azaleas)
Rhododendron spp., commonly known as azaleas, are prized for their brilliant flowers rather than their evergreen foliage. However, certain varieties of azaleas can serve as excellent boxwood substitutes, adding vibrant color and texture to the landscape.
Arborvitae
Arborvitae, also known as Thuja occidentalis, is a popular choice for privacy screens or landscaping accents. With its slender, tall growth habit and dense foliage, arborvitae provides both beauty and functionality in the landscape.
Chinese Holly
Chinese holly, scientifically known as Ilex cornuta, earns its nickname “horned holly” from the needle-sharp tips on its dark green leaves. This evergreen shrub is both beautiful and functional, making it a popular choice for hedges and borders.
Inkberry Holly
Native to the East Coast, inkberry holly (Ilex glabra) resembles boxwood with its small leaves and compact growth habit. However, unlike boxwood, inkberry holly thrives in damp conditions, making it an ideal choice for areas with poor drainage.
Japan Holly
Japan holly, or Ilex crenata, is a thick evergreen shrub with tiny, spherical, dark green leaves. While it closely resembles boxwood in appearance, Japanese holly offers a darker green color and unique texture to the landscape.
Japanese Plum Yew
Japanese plum yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia) is a heat- and shade-tolerant evergreen shrub that can replace yew in the southern garden. With its needled foliage and compact growth habit, Japanese plum yew adds elegance and sophistication to any landscape.
Northern Bayberry
The northern bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) is a mid-sized natural shrub that is semi-evergreen, meaning it retains its foliage throughout most of the year. With its beautiful grayish-blue fruits and aromatic leaves, northern bayberry adds interest and texture to the landscape.