Boxwood plant named ‘Highlander’

Abstract

A new and distinct Boxwood plant is provided that originated as a mutation of unknown causation while growing among a block of vegetatively propagated Buxus sempervirens plants in a plant nursery. The new cultivar readily can be distinguished from other plants of the Buxus sempervirens species in view of its more rapid growth rate and upright pyramidal habit. Attractive deep green foliage is formed which well retains its coloration throughout the year in the absence of any substantial color change during the winter. Excellent winter hardiness to at least U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zone No. 5 is displayed. The plant is well suited for consistently providing attractive ornamentation in the landscape.

1. A new and distinct Boxwood plant possessing the following characteristics:
 (a) forms a dense and upright pyramidal growth habit, 
 (b) forms attractive dark green foliage throughout the year in the absence of any substantial color change during the winter, 
 (c) exhibits excellent winter hardiness to at least U.S.D.A. Hardiness Zone No. 5, 
 (d) generally exhibits a more rapid growth rate than the  Buxus sempervirens  species, and 
 (e) is well suited for providing attractive ornamentation in the landscape; 
 
       substantially as illustrated and described.