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Definition of english boxwood
english boxwood
Plural:English boxwoods
• noun
1
A slow-growing, compact dwarf evergreen shrub (Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa') belonging to the box family (Buxaceae), popularized in traditional European and British landscaping and prized for its small, dense foliage used to form low borders, edging, and intricate topiary.
Example
"The landscape architect designed a classic parterre garden featuring geometric beds bordered by meticulously trimmed English boxwood."
Word Nuance & Usage
In the horticultural trade, 'English boxwood' specifically denotes the slow-growing dwarf cultivar (Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa') to distinguish it from standard or 'American' boxwood.
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Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of English boxwood. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/english%20boxwood