Boxwood (Buxus sinica var. parvifolia) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

Fertilization

When fertilizing boxwood, use a balanced and slow-release fertilizer, or a granular urea fertilizer with a nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (NPK) ratio of 10-6-4. Fertilize once or twice from spring to early summer. Do not fertilize in the hottest periods of summer, late in summer, autumn, or winter.

Pruning

Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun, Full shade

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Boxwood

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

5 to 10

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Questions About Boxwood

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Boxwood?

Your Boxwood will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Boxwood. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Boxwood. However, the Boxwood usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Boxwood too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Boxwood can rely on rain most of the time.

When your Boxwood is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Boxwood, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Boxwood from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Boxwood in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Boxwood, simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Boxwood?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Boxwood is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Boxwood. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Boxwood .

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Boxwood need?

When it comes time to water your Boxwood, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Boxwood by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Boxwood gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Boxwood is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Boxwood is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Boxwood a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Boxwood enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Boxwood, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Boxwood will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Boxwood will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Boxwood.

How can I water my Boxwood at different growth stages?

When the Boxwood is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Boxwood that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Boxwood can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Boxwood is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Boxwood through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Boxwood. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Boxwood will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Boxwood indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Boxwood may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Is pruning necessary for my Boxwood?

It is not always necessary to prune Boxwood, but there are several reasons people may choose to do so depending on their individual preferences. The most common reason is to encourage healthy growth and remove diseased or dying portions of the plant. But there are also aesthetic reasons, such as to make the Boxwood look more symmetrical and tidy. Pinching the stem tips promotes branching, which can make the plant bushier and prevent you having to prune off longer stems in the future. Pruning dense parts of the plant allows for better air circulation, which helps prevent disease and also creates a more pleasing appearance. A mature Boxwood will produce suckers that allow the plant to spread. If you prefer to confine it to one area, you will need to prune these off before they become established. On the other hand, if you are happy to let it spread, these can be left on the plant.

When is the best time to prune my Boxwood?

Pruning any unhealthy growth is best performed in the early spring, allowing the plant to devote its energy to putting out the most new growth over the summer months. You can also remove branches that are growing diagonally or rubbing against other branches at this time to improve the plant’s appearance and keep it from getting damaged. Tips For Pruning Unless the plant is severely diseased or damaged, it’s recommended that you not remove more than one third of a plant at a time. While Boxwood is resilient, over-pruning causes unnecessary stress. That said, Boxwood sometimes may die back after being eaten or due to other damage such as that caused by severe winter weather. In this case, the deep root system can save the day and Boxwood will often be able to regrow the following spring. In this case, you are unlikely to need to prune this year except to remove dead leaves or branches. Remember to remove branches from different portions of the plant equally, including those toward the center of the plant that may be more difficult to reach. This helps keep its leaves to be equally distributed, and improves the overall appearance of your Boxwood

How can I prune my Boxwood?

Boxwood has a more pleasing and well-maintained appearance when it is pruned occasionally. Removing dead leaves and branches keeps it looking healthy and vibrant. Pruning off crooked or slanted branches provides a symmetrical shape and makes Boxwood look neat and tidy. Hand pruners are generally sufficient for pruning Boxwood if you are pruning it annually, since branches won’t get thick enough to require heavy-duty cutting tools. However, if you are pruning more mature branches, you may want to use loppers or a saw. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches. You can either prune these back to the point where the branch is still healthy, or you can cut it all the way at the base of the plant. After removing these, decide if there are other branches that should be removed to promote new growth. Generally these should be the oldest and thickest branches, and you should aim to cut about one-fourth to one-third of the branches from a mature and healthy Boxwood. Sterilize your cutting tool before pruning to avoid introducing disease, and ensure your own safety with the appropriate gloves and eye protection. Then prune each of the branches you’ve chosen to remove, making a clean cut at a 45-degree angle without crushing or twisting the branch.

What should I do after pruning my Boxwood?

Avoid getting the newly-cut branches wet after pruning, since that can make it more likely for your Boxwood to get an infection. Once the wound has dried and callused, it is much less vulnerable. Remove any leaves and branches from the area after pruning. It is also a good idea to water, mulch, and fertilize your Boxwood at this time to support its quick recovery.

How much/long should Boxwood get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Boxwood receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Boxwood need?

Boxwood does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Boxwood? How to protect Boxwood from the sun and heat damage?

Boxwood planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Boxwood during extreme weather events.

Does Boxwood need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Boxwood from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Boxwood, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Boxwood to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Boxwood gets inadequate sunlight?

When Boxwood receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Boxwood receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Boxwood need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Boxwood and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Boxwood fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Boxwood?

Recently transplanted Boxwood will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Boxwood drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

Boxwood that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Boxwood?

The best temperature for Boxwood to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range:

Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃)

Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃)

Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for Boxwood during different growing phases?

Research shows that Boxwood will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep Boxwood warm in cold seasons?

Boxwood can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will Boxwood suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to Boxwood if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low.

If Boxwood gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death.

If Boxwood gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Boxwood?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping Boxwood healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep Boxwood warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of Boxwood, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide Boxwood with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant Boxwood in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If Boxwood is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save Boxwood from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give Boxwood extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for Boxwood in different seasons?

Boxwood is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Boxwood?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant Boxwood in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my Boxwood?

Regardless of which kind of Boxwood you own, regular fertilization will help you grow a plant that has great overall health. The proper supply of nutrients leads to more vigorous growth and can help your Boxwood be more resilient to tough growing conditions while also gaining a better ability to fight off diseases and pests.

The foliage of your Boxwood is one of its most attractive features, which is why you should do all you can to keep it intact. Again, this means creating and adhering to a regular fertilization schedule that is specific to your Boxwood. Doing so will prompt your Boxwood to develop leaves with a deep color and a lush overall look.

When is the best time to fertilize my Boxwood?

The first time that you should fertilize your Boxwood is during the late winter or early spring. This type of fertilization gives your Boxwood all the nutrients it needs to resume healthy growth once the weather gets warm enough.

It is also beneficial to many Boxwood to provide an additional fertilizer feeding during early fall if you in a warm climate region. Fertilizing in early fall not only adds additional nutrients to the soil, which your Boxwood will use in the following growing season, but it also helps your Boxwood be a bit more hardy and capable of surviving the winter cold without experiencing foliage damage. Earlier fertilisation will ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow to withstand the cold winter.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Boxwood?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your Boxwood. The first time occurs during the early and mid-winter months, during which time your Boxwood will be dormant and in no need of feeding.

It is also unwise to fertilize this plant during the late spring and all of the summer. During that time of year, the weather will likely be hotter and can be much dryer as well. Both conditions make it more likely that your Boxwood will have a very negative response to fertilization. To avoid such issues, stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding exclusively during early spring and early fall.

What type of fertilizer does my Boxwood need?

In most cases, the most important nutrient for a Boxwood is nitrogen, but that does not mean that phosphorus and potassium are unimportant. On the contrary, your Boxwood likely needs a decent amount of all three main nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, can work well.

However, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients often leads to optimal growth for a Boxwood. Often, fertilizers that are a bit higher in nitrogen work a bit better. For example, a ratio of 10-6-4 can often work well. When fertilizing, you can use a granular fertilizer or a liquid-based one.

How do I fertilize my Boxwood?

To fertilize your Boxwood using a granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil at the correct time. The slow-release nature of granular fertilizer will release nutrients into the soil slowly over time. As is usually the case, it's best to water your Boxwood, at least lightly, before applying fertilizer.

As an alternative, you can use a liquid fertilizer, but this is less common. To use this approach, mix your fertilizer with water, then pour the water onto the soil around the base of your Boxwood. At times, it is beneficial to perform a soil test before fertilizing to see if you will need to alter the pH at all.

What happens if I fertilize my Boxwood too much?

Overfertilization is always a risk when you are feeding a Boxwood. Overfertilization is especially likely if you feed this plant at the wrong time of year, feed it too often, or feed it without watering the soil first.

When overfertilization takes place, your Boxwood may begin to develop brown leaves. Your Boxwood can also show stunted growth in some cases. On the other hand, it is also possible that too much fertilizer can prompt your Boxwood to rapidly produce too much new growth, much of which will be weak and prone to breaking. Weak new wood can also detract from the overall form and structure of your Boxwood.

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Feng shui direction

Northwest

The boxwood brings a balanced yin-yang energy and is well suited for the Northwest. The Northwest symbolizes helpful people and travel in Feng Shui. As the boxwood is a sturdy, evergreen shrub, it's believed to lend support and foster beneficial relationships. However, interpretations may vary based on personal perspectives and local traditions in Feng Shui.

Water

Every week

Boxwood originates from environments with rainfall, preferring consistent moisture. Overwatering risks root rot and other issues.Water only when topsoil feels dry, ensuring even distribution.

Lighting

Full sun

Boxwood thrives under an abundance of sun exposure but is tough enough to withstand partial sun or even nearly complete shade. While it originates from habitats that provide plenty of solar radiation, it has adapted to less optimal conditions. Insufficient light could hamper growth, while too much could scorch leaves.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

Boxwood is native to environments with temperature ranging from 41 to 95 °F (5 to 35 ℃). It prefers moderate climates and should be adjusted gradually to extreme weather changes to avoid shock.

White-panicle aster is a plant species native to North America. This prairie flower can be found in moist soil, taking root in recently-disturbed turf or along riverbanks. The white-panicle aster is a favorite of pollinators like bees, flies, and wasps, and its seeds and foliage attract grazing deer, rabbits, and livestock.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Boxwood based on 10 million real cases

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

Solutions: Inspect trees frequently, and remove any infected branches as soon as possible. Branch blight cannot be cured, so the only treatment is to prune the tree and monitor it carefully for signs of the disease. All affected parts of the tree should be removed, since blight can survive over the winter inside the plant’s tissues. Blight can become systemic in the tree, in which case the entire plant should be removed so it does not remain a host for the pathogen and allow it to spread.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Dieback

There are several possible causes for dieback.

Solutions: There are a few things to try when dieback becomes apparent: Fertilize and water the plants - these two steps, along with judicious pruning, can help reduce the stress on the root system and encourage renewed vigor Have an arborist check to see if plant roots are girdling Test soil pH and adjust accordingly Remove and destroy infected twigs and branches

Underwatering

A lack of water will cause the leaves to gradually turn yellow starting at the base of the branch while the entire plant appears to wilt.

Solutions: Your plant is very thirsty and needs water promptly. You can revive your plant by giving it water. The easiest technique is to slowly pour water into your plant’s soil so that the whole surface is moistened. If you pour the water too quickly, the water will flow directly through rather than diffusing throughout the soil. If your plant’s pot does not have drainage holes, do not give your plant more than about a third of the pot’s volume of water. If your plant’s pot does have drainage holes, you can add water slowly until the soil is thoroughly moistened and the water flows freely through the pot. If you trim off yellow leaves to improve the plant’s appearance, do not remove more than a third of the plant’s leaves. It may be better to wait until leaves have died and fallen off to remove them.

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Toxicity

* The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

Toxic to Dogs

The common ornamental boxwood plant is moderately to severely toxic to dogs, depending on the exact species and the quantity of plant material a dog has been exposed to, therefore veterinary attention is advised. All parts of the plant contain harmful oils and alkaloids. Dogs may experience poisoning either by eating this plant or just brushing against the foliage, which can cause itchiness and general skin irritation. Ingestion symptoms range from moderate (lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, thirst) to severe (respiratory failures, seizures, convulsions, paralysis, or death).

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Roadside, Residential courtyard, Waterside and forestland

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Bloom Time

Spring

Name story

Box||Boxwood

All plants of the genus Buxus, including Buxus sinica and its varieties such as Buxus sinica var. parvifolia, are commonly known as boxwood or Box. The names refer to their wood which has been used as a material for ornamental boxes, instruments, and other wooden objects, and it's derived from the Greek word "puxus", meaning small box. Native to Korea and China, Buxus sinica var. parvifolia is also known as the Korean box or Chinese box.

Symbolism

Young and energetic

Usages

Environmental Protection Value

Buxus sinica var. parvifolia can absorb toxic gases and purify the atmosphere.

Garden Use

Boxwood is often grown in a hedge, or as a ground cover in bonsai gardens. It is prized for its hardiness, ease of growth, and texture. The plainness of boxwood can be accompanied by more vibrant plants such as English lavender, Midwinter fire bloodtwig dogwood, Mediterranean spurge, and Hart's tongue fern.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Boxes

Species

Boxwood

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Most Common Shrub

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Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

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Boxwood

Buxus sinica var. parvifolia

Boxwood (Buxus sinica var. parvifolia) is a hardy shrub that grows up to 61 cm tall and 91 cm wide. Boxwood is hardy and survives in colder climates. This species grows best in the shade. It has shallow roots, and should be cultivated in isolation from other species.

Hardiness Zones

5 to 10

Toxic to Pets

Care Guide for Boxwood

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Trim the dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun, Full shade

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Questions About Boxwood

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Boxwood?

What should I do if I water my Boxwood too much or too little?

How often should I water my Boxwood?

How much water does my Boxwood need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Boxwood enough?

How can I water my Boxwood at different growth stages?

How can I water my Boxwood through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Boxwood indoors vs outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Boxwood?

When is the best time to prune my Boxwood?

How can I prune my Boxwood?

What should I do after pruning my Boxwood?

How much/long should Boxwood get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does Boxwood need?

Can sunlight damage Boxwood? How to protect Boxwood from the sun and heat damage?

Does Boxwood need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Boxwood from the sun?

What will happen if Boxwood gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Boxwood need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Boxwood?

What is the optimal temperature for Boxwood?

Should I adjust the temperature for Boxwood during different growing phases?

How can I keep Boxwood warm in cold seasons?

What damage will Boxwood suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Boxwood?

How can I keep Boxwood warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide Boxwood with an adequate temperature condition?

How can I save Boxwood from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for Boxwood in different seasons?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Boxwood?

Why do I need to fertilize my Boxwood?

When is the best time to fertilize my Boxwood?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Boxwood?

What type of fertilizer does my Boxwood need?

How do I fertilize my Boxwood?

What happens if I fertilize my Boxwood too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Boxwood based on 10 million real cases

Branch blight

Branch blight can cause lignified branches to dry up entirely and die.

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Dieback

There are several possible causes for dieback.

Learn More

Underwatering

A lack of water will cause the leaves to gradually turn yellow starting at the base of the branch while the entire plant appears to wilt.

Learn More

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Toxicity

Toxic to Dogs

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Roadside, Residential courtyard, Waterside and forestland

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Shrub

Flower Color

Yellow

Green

Bloom Time

Spring

Name story

Box||Boxwood

Symbolism

Young and energetic

Usages

Environmental Protection Value

Buxus sinica var. parvifolia can absorb toxic gases and purify the atmosphere.

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Boxes

Species

Boxwood

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Most Common Shrub

Most Common Shrub