Overview
Uses: Hedges, foundation plantings, borders, edging, containers, topiary.
Benefits: Superior resistance to both boxwood blight and boxwood leafminer — the two most destructive threats facing boxwood in North American landscapes. Glossy green evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and color. Vigorous growth rate fills in garden space faster than most boxwood cultivars while maintaining a tight, uniform habit with annual pruning.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–8
Sun: Full Sun to Full Shade
Life Cycle: Broadleaf Evergreen Shrub
Growth Habit: Upright, Rounded — slightly egg-shaped, taller than wide.
Mature Height: 3.5–5 feet
Mature Width: 3.5–5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Summary
NewGen Freedom® Boxwood represents a genuine breakthrough in boxwood breeding at a time when the genus needs it most. Developed by Saunders Brothers in Virginia and extensively tested across multiple sites in the eastern United States, this selection has demonstrated strong resistance to both boxwood blight and boxwood leafminer — the two diseases and pests that have devastated boxwood plantings across North America in recent years.
The glossy, medium green foliage has a tighter, more uniform habit than traditional workhorse varieties like ‘Wintergreen’ or ‘Winter Gem,’ and it fills in garden space faster thanks to a more vigorous growth rate. The slightly egg-shaped form is attractive both with and without pruning, though annual trimming in late spring produces the tightest, most formal appearance.
As a broadleaf evergreen, NewGen Freedom® provides year-round structure and green color that anchors the landscape through every season. It is deer resistant, rabbit resistant, and tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to considerable shade. Whether planted as a formal hedge, foundation specimen, container accent, or topiary subject, this boxwood delivers classic beauty with significantly less risk.
Care
NewGen Freedom® Boxwood Care
Plant in a location with partial sun to partial shade for the best foliage quality. Full sun is tolerated but may cause winter bronzing, especially in exposed sites. Full shade is acceptable but growth will be slower and the habit more open. NewGen Freedom® grows well in a range of soils from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, as long as drainage is good. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Water thoroughly at planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first two growing seasons. Once established, NewGen Freedom® shows good drought tolerance but benefits from watering during extended dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry. Fertilization is generally not required. If growth seems slow, apply a slow release fertilizer formulated for evergreen shrubs in spring. Do not use an acidic formula. Do not fertilize after midsummer.
Prune annually in late spring to early summer after the last frost date. Annual pruning keeps the habit tight and prevents the center from opening up. Cut only into new growth to maintain an even surface. Avoid pruning before the last spring frost, as tender new growth can be damaged by late cold snaps. Maintain a light layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it away from the stems.
Size
What Size is the NewGen Freedom® Boxwood for Sale Online?
Our NewGen Freedom® Boxwood ships in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and is appropriately sized for its container at the time of shipment. If you have specific sizing or planting questions, please contact us.
How Large Does NewGen Freedom® Boxwood Grow?
NewGen Freedom® reaches 3.5 to 5 feet tall and wide at maturity over 15 to 25 years. Annual pruning can easily maintain it at a smaller size.
Additional Information
What is the botanical name of NewGen Freedom® Boxwood?
The botanical name is Buxus NewGen Freedom® ‘SB 300’ (PP32421). It is part of the Proven Winners® ColorChoice® Shrubs collection and carries the Certified Deer Proof™ designation.
Is NewGen Freedom® resistant to boxwood blight?
Yes. NewGen Freedom® was selected through extensive trials by Saunders Brothers specifically for its resistance to boxwood blight and boxwood leafminer. It is one of the most blight-resistant boxwood cultivars available. However, it is not recommended for landscapes with a history of severe, active boxwood blight outbreaks. Browse our Proven Winners® collection for more options.
Is NewGen Freedom® Boxwood deer resistant?
Yes. NewGen Freedom® carries the Proven Winners® Certified Deer Proof™ designation and is also rabbit resistant. It is one of the most reliably browse-proof evergreen shrubs available. Explore our Evergreen Plants collection for more year-round options.
Does NewGen Freedom® bronze in winter?
Some winter bronzing is possible, particularly in full sun or exposed, windy locations. Planting in a site with some wind protection and avoiding full winter sun exposure minimizes bronzing. Foliage greens up quickly in spring. A light nitrogen application in spring can help speed the recovery of green color. Explore our Deer-Resistant Shrubs and Evergreens collection for more evergreen options.
