Plant Library

Buxus sempervirens 'Dee Runk'

Dee Runk English Boxwood

Buxus sempervirens ‘Dee Runk’ — commonly known as Dee Runk Boxwood — is a distinctive narrow, columnar evergreen shrub valued for its strong upright form, dense dark-green foliage, and excellent performance in formal and architectural plantings. Its naturally vertical habit makes it a standout alternative to yew or juniper for tight spaces.
Key features
Width / spread: 2–3 ft (naturally narrow) Height: 8–12 ft (slow-growing but tall with age) Foliage: Dark green, glossy, evergreen Form: Tall, narrow, columnar Life cycle: Evergreen shrub
Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun to part shade (afternoon shade preferred in hot climates) Soil: Well-drained; adaptable but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred Hardiness:


Zone Low: 5b


Zone High: 8b


Landscape use
Vertical accents and sentinels Formal gardens and parterres Narrow hedges and screens Foundation corners and entryways Containers (with winter protection in colder zones)
Notes


Maintains a strong upright habit with minimal pruning


Excellent choice where height is needed without width


Responds well to light shearing if shaping is desired


Deer resistant


Mulch to protect shallow roots and maintain even soil moisture

Minimum zone

5

Maximum zone

8

Height

8'

Width

2'