Boxwoods have long been a staple in Cincinnati gardens, valued for their evergreen foliage and classic form. At Natorp’s, we continue to grow and sell thousands of boxwoods each year because they remain a beautiful, versatile choice for many landscapes.

But with recent concerns about pests and diseases, more homeowners are exploring boxwood alternatives to diversify their plantings and reduce maintenance. The good news? There are plenty of stunning, resilient plants that offer the same year-round appeal as boxwoods—some with even more color and texture.

Why Consider Boxwood Alternatives?

Choosing a mix of evergreens not only adds variety and curb appeal, but also creates a more resilient, low-maintenance landscape. These alternatives mimic the look and structure of boxwoods, while offering pest resistance, seasonal color, and unique textures.

At Natorp’s Nursery Outlet, we grow over 33,000 trees and shrubs each year right here in Greater Cincinnati. Our team of experts will help you find the best substitute based on your site, sunlight, soil, and desired level of care—so your landscape stays fresh, healthy, and beautiful year-round.

Arborvitae Alternatives (Thuja occidentalis)

These compact evergreens offer dense foliage and a naturally rounded form—ideal for hedges, borders, and foundation plantings:

• Mr. Bowling Ball® Arborvitae – Fine-textured foliage with a tidy globe shape; no pruning required.

• Fire Chief™ Arborvitae – Striking green-to-red foliage in fall; perfect for adding seasonal color.

• Hetz Midget Globe Arborvitae – A classic dwarf variety that’s hardy and easy to maintain.

• Tator Tot® Arborvitae – Petite, rounded form that’s ideal for small spaces or container gardens.

• Anna’s Magic Ball® Arborvitae – Bright golden foliage for a cheerful pop of color.

• Grune Kugel Arborvitae – Dense, globe-shaped form that mimics the structure of boxwood.

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Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra) Alternatives

Inkberry hollies are evergreen shrubs with a look and feel similar to boxwood, but with added durability and pest resistance.

• Gem Box® Inkberry Holly – Compact, rounded growth ideal for hedges and borders.

• Strongbox® Inkberry Holly – Dense, boxwood-like foliage with excellent year-round structure.

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Yews: The Best Boxwood Substitute

If you’re looking for the closest match to boxwoods, Yews are the top choice. These long-lived evergreens offer the same refined look, are easy to shape, and thrive in both sun and shade—making them incredibly versatile for Cincinnati landscapes.

• Spreading Yew (Taxus spp.) – Hardy, adaptable, and ideal for hedges or specimen plantings.

• Hedgehog Plum Yew – Unique texture with soft, evergreen needles; shade-tolerant and low-maintenance.

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Other Evergreen Shrubs & Groundcovers

For gardeners seeking variety in texture and habit, these evergreens offer beauty and durability:

• Dwarf Spruce (Pumila) – Compact, hardy, and great for year-round interest. Learn More!

• Celtic Pride® Siberian Cypress – Low-growing, feathery foliage perfect for groundcover. Learn More!

• Nick’s Compact Juniper – Dense, mounded form with deep green color. Learn More!

Flowering & Deciduous Alternatives

If you’d like to mix in some seasonal color and texture, these plants provide beauty beyond green foliage:

• Spirea (sheared) – Bright blooms and beautiful foliage, easy to shape.- Learn More!

• Itea (Sweetspire) – Fragrant white flowers in spring and stunning fall foliage. Learn More!

• Germander – Compact evergreen herb with purple blooms; great for edging. Learn More!

• Dwarf Barberry (Red or Yellow) – Compact shrubs with vibrant foliage for seasonal contrast. Learn More!

Let Natorp’s Help You Find the Perfect Plant

Every landscape is unique, and our experts are here to help you select the ideal boxwood alternative tailored to your specific location, sunlight, soil type, and maintenance preferences. With our fresh, locally grown inventory and outlet pricing, you’ll find the perfect plants to keep your Cincinnati landscape healthy, vibrant, and worry-free. From our fields to your garden—always the freshest.  Visit Us!