OUTSIDE OF THE BOX

AS BOXWOOD BLIGHT DAMAGES THIS STAPLE EVERGREEN, IT'S TIME TO LOOK AT WORTHY ALTERNATIVES

- MATTHEW OLSON

What shrub would you recommend for structure in the garden? Some of us might suggest boxwood (Buxus), and for good reason. These popular evergreens have been cultivated for thousands of years, beginning with the Egyptians and continuing into the 21st century. However, for more than a decade now a fungal disease called boxwood blight has been spreading across the United States, causing the loss of many boxwood plants and forcing gardeners to look for alternatives to use in the landscape.

Fortunately, we have access to a wide range of plants that can fill this void, including a few boxwood varieties that are resistant to the disease. Let's check out some plants that can be used like boxwood while providing additional benefits in the garden. Many of these picks are for warmer climates, but some also work in the North.

DISTYLIUM

Hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 9, cultivars of Distylium have quickly emerged as a durable evergreen replacement for disease-prone shrubs in warmer parts of the country. And that's no surprise when you hear about distylium's many features, like shade and drought tolerance, deer resistance, design versatility and beautiful dark green foliage.

In this genus, you'll find several varieties well suited to filling large or small parts of the garden. One example is First Editions Cinnamon Girl (D. 'PIIDIST-V'), shown above, which has plum-purple new growth that becomes blue-green as the leaves mature. With a rounded spreading habit, it's a beautiful addition to landscapes in warm regions.

BAYBERRY