Buxus microphylla japonica (Japanese box)

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Plant description

Japanese box hedge is a hardy evergreen shrub that is popular for hedging and topiary. It forms a dense mass of green glossy leaves in tight formation, and is reasonably drought tolerant once established. This form of box is relatively fast growing, and is the best buxus for warm climates. It grows well in sun or part shade and tolerates frost. It grows to around 2 metres. It is native to Japan and Taiwan.

Feed in autumn and spring, at the same time as pruning, and apply the plant food at the drip line of the plant. Yellowing of the lower foliage is a sign that the plant is hungry and needs feeding. When pruning, hand clipping is best, as power shears can tear the plant. Prune in autumn and spring.

Further reading: Hedges and Pruning a hedge in 7 steps (articles written by horticulturalist Angus Stewart).

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: yellow
Flowering season: spring

Plant size

Maximum height: 2 metres
Minimum height: not specified

Maximum width: 1.5 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

This plant will tolerate full or partial sunlight.
Medium frost tolerance.
Plant is salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Not specified.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: cool, temperate, subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: moist, well-drained.

Sand: moist.

Soil pH: 6-7.5

Pests

Caterpillars, scale, mites

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: Any.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose applied in spring and autumn.

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