Care of the shrub Buxus balearica or Balearic boxwood |
|
The genus Buxus, family Buxaceae, comprises about 70 species of shrubs and trees native to Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Some species are: Buxus balearica, Buxus microphylla, Buxus sempervirens, Buxus sinensis, Buxus japonica, Buxus obtusifolia, Buxus citrifolia. Common names: Balearic boxwood, Spanish Boxwood. This species is native to the Balearic Islands (Spain), Algeria, Morocco and Sardinia. They are erect evergreen shrubs that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The leathery, oval leaves are glossy green. They produce yellowish-white male and female axillary flowers. They bloom in spring. Balearic boxwood is used to form hedges, in bushy groups, as isolated specimens and in pots for patios and terraces. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Buxus balearica grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures. Withstands light frosts. The soil can be a normal garden soil with 20% coarse sand; it also grows on calcareous, sandy and stony soils. Water regularly waiting for the substrate to have almost dried up; Balearic boxwood resists a few days of drought. Fertilize with a little compost at the end of winter. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact habit. Buxus balearica is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases. Spanish Boxwood is propagated from seeds sown in spring and by cuttings. |
Images of the shrub Buxus balearica or Balearic boxwood |
 Buxus balearica  Buxus balearica  Buxus balearica |