Additional Information about Buxus harlandii 'Richard'

‘Richard’ has unique rounded foliage with an indentation at the tip almost creates a heart shaped leaf. At first glance, it’s unusual shaped foliage and glossy texture make ‘Richard’ easily mistaken as a non-boxwood. The plant’s habit is very vase shaped and slightly wider than tall. It is part of the harlandii family of boxwood that are thought to have come from southeast Asia or China. Deer resistant.  

Growing & Maintenance Tips for Buxus harlandii 'Richard'

‘Richard’ should be placed in the landscape where it is sheltered from harsh winter winds and extreme cold. It flushes relatively early in spring, thus is more prone to frost damage. In spite of its lack of cold hardiness, it’s unique foliage greatly adds to the landscape. ‘Richard’ requires little to no pruning.

‘Richard’ is very resistant to boxwood leafminer and very tolerant to boxwood blight. It has very few other disease or pest issues.

Interesting Notes about Buxus harlandii 'Richard'

Comments: ‘Richard’s’ foliage is nearly as large as a penny and the heart shape is very unique. We love this plant when it is planted in a protected area. In central Virginia, we have placed it in protected sites on the east or northeast side of the landscape and it has done well, however in the west and southwest locations where it is unprotected, it has suffered winter damage. The harlandii group is showing very good tolerance to boxwood blight, thus creating a stir in the boxwood world.  

Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant

Substitutes: ‘Little Missy’, harlandii, ‘Green Gem’