Boxwood (Buxus species and cultivars) has a long history of use in American gardens, dating back to Colonial times. Think of Williamsburg, and boxwood comes to mind. For hedging and topiary, it is a plant without parallel.
Boxwood Blight

Boxwood Blight

Unfortunately, although durable and long-lived in the right situation, it is also susceptible to a host of insect, disease, and site problems which can limit both its usefulness and beauty in the landscape; and now, it is under attack from a new fungal disease called boxwood blight. 
To read more on the article by Penn State, click on link http://extension.psu.edu/cumberland/news/2013/a-new-blight-on-boxwood