Boxwood ‘Light Show’, often associated with cultivars like Buxus microphylla ‘Sprinter’, is an evergreen shrub valued for its robust growth and attractive foliage. Its compact nature and year-round appeal make it a popular choice for various landscaping applications.
The “Light Show” Unveiled
The “Light Show” aspect refers to its vibrant, glossy green foliage, which maintains its color year-round. Unlike some boxwood varieties that bronze in winter, cultivars like ‘Sprinter’ consistently hold their deep green hue. This provides a reliable garden backdrop, with new growth emerging a bright, fresh green against older leaves.
Its dense, multi-branched growth forms a solid mass of foliage, suitable for creating defined shapes. The plant typically reaches 2 to 4 feet in height and spread, making it versatile for various garden designs.
Cultivating Your “Light Show” Boxwood
Site Selection and Planting
Select a site with good air movement and well-draining soil, avoiding areas prone to standing water. When planting, dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the pot. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above the surrounding soil level to ensure proper drainage and prevent water from settling around the crown.
Light Requirements
‘Light Show’ boxwood performs well in full sun to partial shade, needing at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it tolerates full shade, insufficient light can lead to an open growth habit. Protect the plant from intense hot afternoon sun, especially in warmer climates, to prevent stress.
Soil and Watering
This boxwood thrives in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Boxwoods adapt to various soil types but cannot tolerate soggy conditions, which cause root rot. During establishment, consistent watering is crucial; provide a deep soaking weekly if rainfall is insufficient. Once established, boxwoods are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry periods, wetting the soil to 6 to 12 inches.
Fertilization
‘Light Show’ boxwood does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, in early spring to support growth. An organic fertilizer can also be used. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or early fall, as this stimulates tender new growth vulnerable to early frosts.
Pruning for Form and Health
While ‘Light Show’ boxwood can grow naturally, it responds well to pruning for shaping and density. The best time for shaping or shearing is in spring, after hard frosts, or throughout the summer. Promptly remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches at any time. When reducing size, avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s mass at once.
Winter Protection
In colder climates (USDA Zones 5-9), boxwoods benefit from winter protection to prevent winter burn or desiccation. Ensure plants are well-watered before winter, as dry soil and strong winds cause damage. Apply organic mulch around the base to insulate shallow roots and retain soil moisture. In exposed locations, wrap plants with burlap or erect a windbreak to shield them from harsh winter winds and sun.
Design Applications for “Light Show” Boxwood
The compact size and consistent evergreen foliage of ‘Light Show’ boxwood make it versatile in landscape design. It excels as a low hedge, defining garden beds or pathways with its neat, formal appearance. This boxwood is also well-suited for foundation plantings, providing year-round structure against a home or other buildings.
Its dense growth makes it an excellent choice for container gardening, either as a standalone specimen or a base for seasonal plantings. The plant’s vibrant green color throughout seasons allows it to serve as a consistent visual element, offering a backdrop for flowering plants or adding structure to informal gardens. It can also be used as an accent plant, placed strategically to highlight garden features or provide a focal point.