Quck answer
If you’re looking for a boxwood plant that doesn’t have a strong smell resembling cat urine, here are some tips to consider:
1. Choose the right variety: Some boxwood varieties have a stronger odor than others. Look for varieties that are known for their pleasant scent or are labeled as having a low odor.
2. Inspect the plant: Before purchasing a boxwood, give it a sniff to check for any unpleasant smells. If you detect a strong cat urine odor, it’s best to choose a different plant.
3. Consult with experts: Seek advice from nursery professionals or horticulturists who can recommend boxwood varieties that are less likely to have a strong odor.
4. Consider alternatives: If you’re concerned about the smell, you may want to explore other shrub options that have similar characteristics to boxwoods but without the strong odor.
Remember, not all boxwoods have a cat urine smell, so with some research and careful selection, you can find a boxwood that suits your preferences.
Boxwood is a popular evergreen plant that is primarily used for hedging due to its dense leafy growth. However, some species, especially the English boxwood, can exude a strong scent that smells like cat urine, especially when exposed to sunlight. This can be a problem for those who don’t want their garden to smell unpleasant. Fortunately, there are other boxwood species that are less malodorous and can be used as a substitute.
Littleleaf Box
The Littleleaf Box, also known as Buxus microphylla or Buxus sinica var insularis, is a boxwood species that is reputedly less odorous than the English boxwood. It has a compact, rounded habit and grows up to 3-4 feet tall with an equal spread. The cultivar, “Green Beauty,” is known for its glossy dark green leaves. Another variety, “Justin Brouwers,” features an equally rounded form and compact size at 2 feet tall and wide.
Other Littleleaf Forms
Japanese varieties of the Littleleaf Box offer similar attributes to the Japanese boxwood without the English box odor. One popular variety is “Wintergreen,” which grows up to 4 feet tall and wide and is suitable for taller hedges. Another variety, “Jim Stauffer,” grows up to 4 feet tall and spreads only 3 feet. Both varieties are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8.
Littleleaf Box Care
The Littleleaf Box requires similar care to the English boxwood. They prefer well-draining soil and part shade to full sun, with Japanese varieties doing best in full sun. Mulching to conserve soil moisture is a good idea. Littleleaf Boxwood is less fussy about soil pH than English Boxwood and can tolerate a wider range of temperatures.
Box Substitutes
If boxwood is still too smelly for your taste, Japanese holly (Ilex crenata) is a likely substitute. It has a similar hardiness range, small, densely borne leaves, and a tolerance for shearing. Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra) is another related plant that is a good box substitute and grows in USDA zones 4 or 5 through 9 or 10, depending on the variety.
FAQ
1. Why do some boxwoods smell like cat urine?
Some boxwood varieties, particularly the Boxwood Buxus sempervirens, emit a strong odor that resembles cat urine. This smell is caused by the presence of certain compounds in the foliage, such as methyl mercaptan, which is also found in cat urine. The smell is more noticeable in warmer weather or when the foliage is crushed or bruised.
2. Are all boxwoods prone to smelling like cat urine?
No, not all boxwoods have a strong odor resembling cat urine. While the Boxwood Buxus sempervirens is more likely to have this smell, other boxwood varieties, such as the Korean Boxwood Buxus microphylla var. koreana, do not have a noticeable odor. If you are sensitive to the smell, it is recommended to choose a boxwood variety that is known for its lack of odor.
3. How can I find a boxwood that doesn’t smell like cat urine?
To find a boxwood variety that doesn’t have a strong odor resembling cat urine, it is advisable to visit a reputable nursery or garden center. Talk to the staff and ask specifically for boxwood varieties that are known for their lack of odor. They can guide you to suitable options, such as the Korean Boxwood or other odorless varieties. Additionally, you can also research online or consult gardening forums for recommendations from experienced gardeners who have successfully grown boxwoods without the unpleasant smell.