Japanese Boxwood 'Winter Gem', or Buxus microphylla japonica 'Winter Gem', is a cultivar of the Japanese Boxwood that is highly valued for its compact growth habit, small, dense foliage, and exceptional hardiness. The plant is native to Japan and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant.

'Winter Gem' is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 2-3 meters tall, with a width of up to 1 meter. Its branches are densely covered with small, glossy, dark green leaves that are tightly packed together, creating a striking visual contrast with its light-colored bark. The foliage is notably smaller than that of the standard Japanese Boxwood, giving the shrub a more refined and elegant appearance.

One of the most attractive features of 'Winter Gem' is its exceptional hardiness and tolerance for cold temperatures. It is also highly disease resistant and low maintenance, making it a popular choice for a wide range of landscaping and garden design applications. It is ideal for use in formal gardens, topiary, and as a low-growing hedge or border plant.

The small, dense foliage of 'Winter Gem' makes it an excellent choice for pruning and shaping into a wide variety of forms, including topiary, hedges, and bonsai. Its slow growth rate means that it requires less frequent pruning than other cultivars, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance garden.

Overall, Japanese Boxwood 'Winter Gem' is a highly desirable and versatile shrub that is sure to add beauty, interest, and practical value to any outdoor space. Its compact growth habit, small foliage, and exceptional hardiness make it an excellent choice for a wide range of garden design styles and applications.