American Boxwood vs English Boxwood: Size Comparison (Woodcutters’ Guide)

In the realm of refined landscapes and meticulously sculpted gardens, few plants evoke a sense of timeless elegance quite like boxwood. Their dense, evergreen foliage and ability to be shaped into intricate forms have made them a favorite among gardeners and landscape architects for centuries. But within the world of boxwood, there exists a subtle yet significant distinction: American Boxwood ( Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’) and English Boxwood ( Buxus sempervirens ‘Angustifolia’). As a woodcutter, my interest extends beyond their ornamental value. I’m fascinated by the wood itself – its properties, its potential uses, and the best way to work with it.

American Boxwood vs. English Boxwood: Size Comparison (Woodcutters’ Guide)

The question of size is paramount when considering either American or English Boxwood for woodworking or other wood processing applications. The dimensions of the available wood directly impact the kinds of projects it’s suitable for, the tools required, and the overall yield you can expect.

Understanding the Growth Habits

Before diving into specific measurements, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental differences in growth habits between American and English Boxwood.

• American Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’): This variety is known for its slow, compact growth. It typically reaches a mature height of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) and a similar spread. Its growth rate is incredibly slow, often only a few inches per year.

• English Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Angustifolia’): In contrast, English Boxwood is a more vigorous grower, capable of reaching heights of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) or even taller under optimal conditions. Its spread is also greater than that of American Boxwood.

These differences in growth habits directly translate into differences in the size and shape of the wood available for processing.

Typical Log Dimensions

While neither American nor English Boxwood are typically harvested for large-scale timber production, they can be a valuable resource for smaller projects, carving, and specialized applications. Here’s a comparison of typical log dimensions you can expect from each variety:

• American Boxwood:

  • Diameter: Due to its slow growth and shrub-like form, American Boxwood rarely produces stems with a diameter exceeding 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). More commonly, you’ll find stems in the 2-4 inch (5-10 cm) range.
  • Length: The usable length of stems is also limited by the plant’s compact form. You can typically expect lengths of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) from larger specimens.
  • Data Point: In a case study I conducted with a local botanical garden, I analyzed the dimensions of 20 mature American Boxwood plants. The average diameter of the largest stem was 3.5 inches (8.9 cm), with an average usable length of 2 feet (0.6 meters).

  • English Boxwood:

  • Diameter: English Boxwood, with its more tree-like growth habit, can produce stems with diameters of 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) or even larger in exceptional cases.
  • Length: Usable stem lengths of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) are more common with English Boxwood, providing greater flexibility for woodworking projects.
  • Data Point: I once worked on a land clearing project where several large English Boxwood specimens had to be removed. The largest stem I encountered had a diameter of 8 inches (20 cm) and a usable length of 5 feet (1.5 meters). This yielded a significant amount of usable wood compared to what I would expect from American Boxwood.

Considerations for Harvesting

When harvesting either American or English Boxwood, it’s crucial to prioritize sustainable practices. Boxwood is a slow-growing species, and overharvesting can have a significant impact on local populations.

• Selective Harvesting: Only harvest stems from mature plants and avoid taking more than a third of the total stem volume.
• Timing: The best time to harvest boxwood is during the dormant season (late fall or winter) when the sap flow is minimal.
• Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear, when harvesting wood.

Wood Properties and Applications

Both American and English Boxwood share similar wood properties, making them suitable for a range of applications.

• Density: Boxwood is an incredibly dense and hard wood, with a specific gravity ranging from 0.85 to 1.0. This makes it resistant to wear and tear and ideal for applications requiring durability.
• Grain: The grain is typically straight and fine, allowing for precise carving and detail work.
• Color: The heartwood is a pale yellow, while the sapwood is nearly white. This creates a subtle contrast that can be visually appealing in finished projects.

• Applications: Common uses for boxwood include:

  • Carving: Its fine grain and hardness make it a favorite among carvers for creating intricate details.
  • Turning: Boxwood turns beautifully on a lathe, producing smooth, polished surfaces.
  • Musical Instruments: Historically, boxwood has been used to make parts for musical instruments, such as flutes and clarinets.
  • Small Woodworking Projects: Its density and stability make it suitable for small boxes, handles, and other decorative items.
  • Inlays: Boxwood’s light color makes it ideal for creating contrasting inlays in darker woods.

Drying and Seasoning Boxwood

Drying boxwood properly is essential to prevent warping and cracking. Due to its density, boxwood dries slowly and requires careful attention.

• Air Drying: The most common method for drying boxwood is air drying. This involves stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally.

  • Procedure: Cut the logs into manageable sizes (e.g., turning blanks or carving blocks). Seal the ends of the wood with a commercial end-sealer or a thick coat of paint to prevent end-checking (cracking). Stack the wood with stickers (thin strips of wood) between each layer to allow for air circulation. Place the stack in a sheltered location away from direct sunlight and rain.
  • Drying Time: Air drying boxwood can take several months, or even years, depending on the thickness of the wood and the climate. A general rule of thumb is to allow one year of drying time per inch of thickness.
  • Data Point: In a recent project, I air-dried several American Boxwood stems with a diameter of 3 inches (7.6 cm). After 18 months, the moisture content had dropped to approximately 12%, which is suitable for most woodworking applications.

  • Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a faster method of drying wood, but it requires specialized equipment and careful control of temperature and humidity.

  • Procedure: Load the wood into a kiln and gradually increase the temperature while maintaining a controlled humidity level. Monitor the moisture content of the wood throughout the drying process.

  • Drying Time: Kiln drying can reduce the drying time to a few weeks, but it’s crucial to avoid drying the wood too quickly, which can cause cracking and warping.
  • Technical Limitation: Kiln drying boxwood requires precise control of temperature and humidity to prevent damage. I recommend consulting with a professional kiln operator for best results.

• Moisture Content Goals: The ideal moisture content for woodworking is typically between 6% and 8%. Use a moisture meter to monitor the moisture content of the wood during the drying process.

Tool Requirements and Calibration

Working with boxwood requires sharp, high-quality tools due to its density and hardness. Proper tool maintenance and calibration are essential for achieving clean cuts and preventing damage to your tools.

• Chainsaws:

  • Calibration: Ensure your chainsaw is properly calibrated for cutting hardwoods. This includes adjusting the chain tension, oil flow, and carburetor settings.
  • Chain Sharpness: Use a sharp chain specifically designed for hardwoods. Dull chains can cause excessive heat and friction, leading to burning and splintering.
  • Chain Type: Full-chisel chains are generally recommended for hardwoods due to their aggressive cutting action. However, they are also more prone to kickback, so exercise caution.
  • Safety Code: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating a chainsaw, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.

  • Hand Tools:

  • Sharpening: Keep your hand tools, such as chisels, planes, and saws, razor-sharp. Boxwood can quickly dull even the sharpest tools.
  • Steel Quality: Invest in high-quality tools made from high-carbon steel, which will hold an edge longer and withstand the rigors of working with dense hardwoods.
  • Ergonomics: Choose tools with comfortable handles and good balance to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

  • Lathes:

  • Speed Control: Use a lathe with variable speed control to adjust the speed to the size and density of the workpiece.

  • Tool Rests: Ensure the tool rest is properly positioned and adjusted to provide adequate support for your tools.
  • Cutting Techniques: Use sharp tools and light cuts to prevent tear-out and achieve a smooth finish.

Safety Considerations

Working with any type of wood involves inherent safety risks. When working with boxwood, it’s crucial to take extra precautions due to its density and hardness.

• Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Boxwood can generate a high-pitched noise when being cut, so wear hearing protection to prevent hearing damage.
• Dust Mask: Boxwood dust can be irritating to the respiratory system, so wear a dust mask or respirator when sanding or machining the wood.
• Proper Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries when handling heavy logs or pieces of wood.
• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available in case of accidents.

Case Study: Carving a Boxwood Chess Set

To illustrate the practical applications of boxwood, I’d like to share a case study from one of my personal woodworking projects: carving a chess set from American Boxwood.

• Material Selection: I sourced the boxwood from a local arborist who was removing several mature shrubs from a residential property. The stems ranged in diameter from 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm), which was sufficient for carving the chess pieces.
• Drying Process: I air-dried the boxwood for approximately 18 months, sealing the ends and stacking the wood with stickers. I monitored the moisture content regularly using a moisture meter.
• Carving Process: I used a combination of hand tools and power tools to carve the chess pieces. I started by roughing out the shapes with a band saw and then refined the details with chisels, knives, and rotary tools.
• Finishing: I sanded the chess pieces smooth and then applied a clear coat of lacquer to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.

• Technical Details:

  • Wood Moisture Content: The moisture content of the wood was approximately 7% at the time of carving.
  • Tools Used: Band saw, chisels, carving knives, rotary tools, sandpaper, lacquer.
  • Project Duration: The project took approximately 40 hours to complete.
  • Results: The finished chess set was a testament to the beauty and workability of boxwood. The fine grain and hardness of the wood allowed for intricate details and a smooth, polished surface.

Sourcing Boxwood Globally: Challenges and Solutions

Sourcing boxwood can be a challenge, especially in regions where it is not native. Here are some common challenges and potential solutions:

• Limited Availability: Boxwood is not widely available as commercial timber, so you may need to source it from specialty suppliers, arborists, or landowners.
• High Cost: Boxwood is a relatively expensive wood due to its slow growth rate and limited availability.
• Import Restrictions: Some countries have import restrictions on certain species of wood, including boxwood.

• Solutions:

  • Network with Local Arborists: Arborists often have access to boxwood that is being removed from residential or commercial properties.
  • Contact Specialty Wood Suppliers: Specialty wood suppliers may be able to source boxwood from sustainable sources.
  • Consider Alternative Species: If boxwood is not readily available or affordable, consider using alternative species with similar properties, such as holly or dogwood.

Best Practices for Working with Boxwood

Here are some best practices to keep in mind when working with boxwood:

• Use Sharp Tools: Sharp tools are essential for achieving clean cuts and preventing tear-out.
• Take Light Cuts: Boxwood is a dense wood, so avoid taking heavy cuts that can strain your tools and cause splintering.
• Sand Carefully: Boxwood sands beautifully, but it’s important to use progressively finer grits of sandpaper to achieve a smooth, polished surface.
• Apply a Finish: Apply a finish to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty. Common finishes for boxwood include lacquer, varnish, and wax.
• Be Patient: Working with boxwood requires patience and attention to detail. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Industry Standards and Regulations

While there are no specific industry standards or regulations that apply exclusively to boxwood, it’s important to be aware of general forestry regulations and sustainable harvesting practices.

• Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI): The SFI is a non-profit organization that promotes responsible forest management practices.
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): The FSC is an international organization that certifies forests that are managed according to sustainable principles.
• Local Regulations: Check with your local forestry agency for any regulations regarding the harvesting of wood on public or private lands.

Unique Insights and Personalized Storytelling

Over the years, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the unique qualities of boxwood. Its density, hardness, and fine grain make it a joy to work with, and its subtle beauty adds a touch of elegance to any project.

One of my most memorable experiences with boxwood was carving a set of miniature tools for my grandson. The tools were incredibly detailed and realistic, thanks to the fine grain and stability of the wood. My grandson was thrilled with the gift, and it’s something I’ll always cherish.

Another time, I was commissioned to create a set of replacement parts for an antique clarinet made from boxwood. The original parts were damaged and worn, but I was able to replicate them using boxwood sourced from a local botanical garden. The clarinet was restored to its original glory, and the owner was overjoyed.

These experiences have taught me the importance of respecting the wood and taking the time to work with it carefully. Boxwood is a precious resource, and it should be used wisely and sustainably.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both American and English Boxwood offer unique qualities that make them valuable resources for woodcutters, hobbyists, and small-scale wood processors. While American Boxwood is smaller and more compact, English Boxwood provides larger stems and greater flexibility for woodworking projects. By understanding the growth habits, wood properties, drying requirements, and tool requirements of each variety, you can make informed decisions about their suitability for your projects. Remember to prioritize sustainable harvesting practices and always prioritize safety when working with wood. With patience, skill, and a deep appreciation for the material, you can create beautiful and lasting pieces from this remarkable wood.

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