Family: Buxaceae

Buxus sempervirens (boxtree, boxwood) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It is known for its dense, slow-growing habit and small, glossy green leaves that create a neat, formal look in landscapes. For centuries, boxwood has been widely planted in gardens and estates for hedges, borders, and decorative topiary because it responds well to regular pruning and can be shaped into precise forms.

In Hawaiʻi, boxwood is considered high risk and is not recommended for planting. It possesses traits that raise concern for invasiveness, including tolerance of a wide range of growing conditions, shade tolerance, and the ability to reproduce by both seed and vegetative growth. These characteristics mean it could spread beyond cultivation and displace native or desirable vegetation over time. For these reasons, boxwood is considered a “no-grow” plant in Hawaiʻi, and safer, non-invasive alternatives are encouraged.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climatic and soil tolerance
  
• Naturalized in Europe
  
• Toxic to humans and unpalatable to animals
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Reproduces by seed and vegetatively
  
• Dispersed by ants, wind, and water
  
• Resprouts after damage

Low Risk Traits:

• Not invasive in managed or natural systems
  
• Low seed production; no persistent seed bank
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not a major pest or disease host
  
• Localized seed dispersal (ants/wind)
  
• Slow-growing; long time to maturity