Additional Information about Buxus sinica var. insularis 'Nana'

Insularis ‘Nana’ is a low spreading cultivar with lime green new growth in the spring. New growth will slowly fade to a light green. Although considered a smaller cultivar, it is a somewhat fast grower. It is very similar to the cultivars ‘Franklin’s Gem’ and ‘Tide Hill’. Deer resistant.

Growing & Maintenance Tips for Buxus sinica var. insularis 'Nana'

Prune insularis ‘Nana’ lightly in late winter or early spring to make a stronger and denser plant. This cultivar can be pruned with shears or hand pruners. Thinning is not typically necessary but, if this cultivar is sheared heavily, some thinning in late winter to early spring will allow air and sunlight to penetrate the plant.

Insularis ‘Nana’ is very resistant to boxwood leaf miner and very tolerant to boxwood blight. It has few pest or disease issues when planted and cared for properly.

Interesting Notes about Buxus sinica var. insularis 'Nana'

Comments: ‘Nana’ is becoming increasingly popular due to its tolerance to boxwood blight and resistance to boxwood leafminer. An annual light pruning will help develop rigidity in this boxwood and lessen the chance of the plant opening up in the center as it matures. Recent testing data indicates ‘Nana’ and ‘Franklin’s Gem’ are basically the same plant.

Uses: Small specimen, low hedge, foundation plant, edging, parterre or knot garden

Substitutes: ‘Franklin’s Gem’, ‘Little Missy’, ‘Justin Brouwers’, ‘Vardar Valley’