Care of the shrub Buxus microphylla or Japanese box |
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The genus Buxus, family Buxaceae, includes about 70 species of shrubs and trees native to Europe, Asia, Africa and America. Some species are: Buxus microphylla, Buxus sempervirens, Buxus balearica, Buxus sinensis, Buxus japonica, Buxus obtusifolia, Buxus citrifolia. Common names: Japanese box, Small-Leaved Boxwood or Littleleaf box. This species is native to Japan and Taiwan. They are slow-growing evergreen shrubs or small trees that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The rounded-tipped, oval leaves are up to 2.5 cm (0,98") long and bright green. The small cream-colored flowers are not very decorative. They bloom in spring. These easy-to-grow plants are used in flower beds, as isolated specimens, to form hedges, in pots and in topiary. Buxus microphylla grows in full sun, semi-shade and shade exposures. It resists light and occasional frosts. They grow in any type of soil that has excellent drainage but prefer that it contains some organic matter. Pot transplanting is done in early spring. Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. They resist drought well when they are already established. Fertilize with compost in the fall. Prune in late winter to keep compact or shape. They are plants that are very resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to the accumulation of water in the roots. They are easily propagated by stem cuttings in spring or summer. |
Images of the shrub Buxus microphylla or Japanese box |
 Buxus microphylla  Buxus microphylla |