waxy, shiny leaf with a smooth edge and sort of a tear drop shape

by Shortski
(Bridgewater Corners VT)

waxy, shiny leaf with a smooth edge and sort of a tear drop shape

Drought Smart Plants reply: Oh, I would keep it! This is Buxus, or boxwood, and it's used a lot for topiary, the art of pruning to make it into a shape.

This looks like it was originally two balls, called poodle clip, which probably looked great. If you're at all handy, this might be something to try. As it's really overgrown, it will take a bit to get it back into its original shape.

As the leaves are tiny, you can use hedge shears to clip it, and even if the leaves get cut in half, it won't matter.

This particular shrub looks really healthy, and it would be a shame to simply rip it out. Give it a chance, and find out more about this unique pruning technique.

Here's some more on the subject:

Boxwood - the Versatile Landscape Shrub

And here's some more on the actual pruning technique here:

Topiary: Art with Nature part 1

Topiary: Art with Nature - how to do it yourself

Hope this helps with your decision!
Jacki