Boxwood – Variety Without Odor

Q: Is there a variety of boxwood that does not smell?

A: English boxwood, Buxus sempervirens, is well-known to smell like a cat litter box. Asian boxwood, Buxus microphylla, doesn’t have the catty odor. Unfortunately, the Asian species does not grow very fast. To remedy that, breeders have introduced English/Asian crosses like ‘Green Mountain’ and ‘Green Velvet’. Other cultivars are available. Go to a nursery and make your own comparison!