Oregon Boxwood (Paxistima myrsinites)

Oregon boxwood is an attractive, low-growing evergreen shrub with small, dark green leathery leaves and inconspicuous red flowers. It is a worthy addition to formal gardens with its compact and tidy habit, and offers gardeners a native alternative to the non-native European boxwood. This versatile shrub does well in the dry shade of conifers, and can also handle full sun.

Sun Exposure: Full sun, part shade, shade
Soil & Moisture: Moist to seasonally dry, well-drained soils. Prefers slightly acidic, humus-rich soils. Drought tolerant once established.
Mature Size: Up to 3' tall and wide
Bloom Time: Spring to summer
Edible: no
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects. Provides cover. Browsed by deer, elk, and other wildlife.
Native Range & Habitat: Forests, open rocky areas from low to high elevations. British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Other Names: Oregon box, myrtle boxwood, mountain lover