Buxus microphylla
aka
Japanese Box
Taxonomy
Buxus microphylla, also known as the Japanese box or littleleaf box, is a species of flowering plant in the box family. Native to Japan and Taiwan, this dwarf evergreen shrub or small tree typically reaches a height and width of 1 meter (3.3 feet). It has a compact, rounded habit and dense, bright green foliage that is edged with gold. The leaves may take on a slight bronze color in winter or when exposed to hot sun. This versatile plant is well-suited for pots and containers on patios or balconies, as well as for low-growing hedges.
Buxus microphylla is a slow-growing shrub that maintains its evergreen nature throughout the year. It can thrive in various soil types, including light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. This species can adapt to different pH levels, including acidic, neutral, and alkaline soils, even tolerating very alkaline conditions. It can grow in semi-shaded areas, such as light woodlands, or in areas with no shade. However, it prefers moist soil.
In the case of Buxus microphylla var. japonica, the tree height typically ranges from 1 to 3 meters, but in rare cases, it can grow up to 4 meters or even 10 meters. The trunk is upright and around 10 centimeters thick, with a grayish white to pale brown bark. The bright green leaves are oval-shaped, measuring 10 to 25 millimeters in length, with a rounded or notched tip. While the species was first described from cultivated plants in Japan of unknown origin, it is not found in the wild.
Overall, Buxus microphylla is a compact, slow-growing, and evergreen shrub with vibrant green foliage, making it an excellent choice for both decorative containers and low hedges.
Common names
Japanese Box, Littleleaf Boxwood, Japanese Boxwood
How to care for Japanese Box
Japanese Box is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Japanese Box should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Japanese Box loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
To ensure optimal growth, the Japanese Box prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Japanese Box is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
The growth of Japanese Box is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.
Japanese Box’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan.
More info:
Wikipedia
