Buxus balearica aka Spanish Boxwood

Buxus balearica is an evergreen shrub, also called Balearic boxwood. It belongs to the box family, Buxaceae. Its native range spans parts of the Mediterranean region. Kew lists southern and eastern Spain, the Balearic Islands, and Sardinia. Its range also includes northwest Africa and southern Türkiye. It grows on dry hills, rocky slopes, and sandy ground.

In gardens, it forms a rounded or broadly rounded shrub. It can also grow as a small tree. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a usual height of 6–12 feet [1.8–3.7 metres]. RHS gives an upper garden height near 13 feet [4 metres]. Wild trees may reach 25 feet [7.6 metres]. Garden spread can reach 12 feet [3.7 metres]. The leaves grow in opposite pairs and have smooth edges. They are glossy, leathery, and oval, with paler green undersides. Each leaf can reach about 1.75 inches long. Small, greenish-yellow flowers lack petals and bloom from April to May.

This box grows best in moist soil that drains well. Sandy loam suits it, though it accepts several soil types. It also grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Partial shade offers a good growing position. Full sun can scorch leaves, while deep shade reduces leaf density. Dry soil and strong winds raise the risk of scorch. Exposed plants may turn bronze during harsh winters. Young growth can also suffer winter damage. RHS rates it H4; Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 8–10.

Its evergreen leaves give gardens structure through winter. Grow it as a hedge, screen, specimen, or foundation shrub. It also suits formal gardens and topiary. It tolerates clipping, but avoid pruning before the last spring frost. RHS recommends summer pruning and allows renovation work in late spring. PFAF describes its growth as slow. RHS gives about 10–20 years to reach full size. Summer semi-ripe cuttings provide a way to raise new plants. Its hard wood has a use in engraving.

Box blight and leaf spot can damage this plant. Poor drainage can lead to root rot. Pests include box tree caterpillars, box suckers, scale insects, and spider mites. Honey fungus occurs less often. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. PFAF lists no food or medicinal uses. RHS warns that eating it can harm dogs. The supplied RHS toxicity record also flags harm to people.