Beautiful Boxwood Alternatives for Cincinnati Landscapes

Love the look of boxwoods—but not the stress? Whether you’re replacing damaged plants or refreshing your landscape, there are resilient, stylish alternatives that deliver structure, color, and year-round impact in Southwest Ohio gardens.

If You Love the Classic Boxwood Look

Arborvitae (Thuja) 

Clean, compact, and perfect for borders or foundations.

• Mr. Bowling Ball® – tidy globe, no pruning

• Tator Tot® – dense and compact

• Anna’s Magic Ball® – bright golden color pop

Low maintenance. Naturally holds its shape. Great for small spaces.

Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra) 

A boxwood look with stronger performance.

• Gem Box®

• Strongbox®

Evergreen. Rounded form. Improved pest resistance.

Yew (Taxus)

A timeless, structured alternative.

Excellent for shaping. Tolerates shade. Ideal for formal designs.

Want More Color and Personality?

Mix evergreen structure with flowering shrubs for added seasonal interest.

• Spirea – bright blooms and easy care.
• Itea (Sweetspire) – fragrant spring flowers and brilliant fall color.
• Germander – low evergreen with soft purple blooms.
• Dwarf Barberry – bold foliage color for strong contrast.

Design Smarter

• Match plants to your light conditions.
• Layer textures and heights for depth.
• Combine evergreen structure with seasonal blooms for year-round beauty.

Explore your options and create something even better than before.

Have a question? Ask our experts.