Buxus sempervirens 'Unraveled'

Buxus sempervirens ‘Unraveled’ is a distinctive and modern take on the classic boxwood, valued for its unusual, airy texture and sculptural form. A cultivar of Buxus sempervirens, it breaks away from the dense, tightly clipped look typical of traditional boxwoods.

Instead, ‘Unraveled’ features long, narrow, ribbon-like leaves that twist and curl along slender stems, creating a soft, wispy appearance. The foliage is a fresh medium green, lending a lighter, more relaxed feel to plantings while still providing evergreen structure year-round.

This slow- to moderate-growing shrub typically reaches about 3–4 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, forming an upright, loosely rounded shape. It requires little pruning to maintain its natural form, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes, contemporary designs, or as a textural contrast in mixed borders.

‘Unraveled’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Like other boxwoods, it benefits from protection against harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun in warmer climates. Its unique foliage and open habit make it especially effective as a focal point or accent plant, offering a fresh, artistic alternative to traditional boxwood varieties. Hardy to zone 5.