Yellow or Brown Boxwoods: A Comparison

Boxwood shrubs are a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers due to their evergreen foliage, versatility in shaping, and low maintenance. However, not all boxwoods are created equal. In this article, we will compare two popular types of boxwood shrubs - yellow and brown boxwoods - and explore the differences between them.

What are Yellow and Brown Boxwoods?

Yellow and brown boxwoods are both varieties of the Buxus genus, which includes over 70 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees. They are prized for their dense, glossy green foliage and ability to be pruned into various shapes, including hedges and topiaries. However, there are some distinct differences between these two varieties.

Appearance

The most obvious difference between yellow and brown boxwoods is their coloration. As the name suggests, yellow boxwoods have bright yellow-green leaves that tend to be slightly smaller than those of brown boxwoods. In contrast, brown boxwoods have dark green leaves with a bronze tint that may appear almost brown in certain lighting conditions.

In terms of size, yellow and brown boxwoods are relatively similar. Both varieties typically grow to be around 3-5 feet tall and wide, though they can be pruned to be smaller or larger as desired.

Hardiness

Another important factor to consider when choosing between yellow and brown boxwoods is their hardiness. While both varieties are generally considered to be hardy and adaptable plants, yellow boxwoods are more tolerant of cold temperatures and harsh growing conditions than brown boxwoods.

Yellow boxwoods are native to Japan and Korea, where they are well-adapted to cold winters and hot summers. As a result, they are more likely to thrive in areas with harsher climates, such as the northern United States and Canada. Brown boxwoods, on the other hand, are native to Europe and are better suited to milder, more temperate climates.

Growth Rate

One final factor to consider when comparing yellow and brown boxwoods is their growth rate. While both varieties are relatively slow-growing, yellow boxwoods tend to grow slightly faster than brown boxwoods.

This can be an advantage if you are looking to quickly establish a hedge or topiary, but it may also require more frequent pruning to maintain the desired shape. In contrast, brown boxwoods' slower growth rate may make them a better choice for more low-maintenance landscaping projects.

A yellow boxwood shrub

In summary, both yellow and brown boxwoods are excellent choices for adding evergreen structure and texture to your garden or landscape. However, there are some key differences between these two varieties that may make one a better fit for your particular needs and growing conditions.

Boxwood shrubs, evergreen foliage, pruning, hardy, growth rate, landscaping projects