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

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen

Height

8'

Width

2'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Foundation, Hedge, Specimen

Shape

Narrow Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No