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Description
Buxus Balearica, also known as Balearic Boxwood, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant is widely used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|—————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Buxales|| Family| Buxaceae|| Genus| Buxus|| Species| Buxus Balearica|
Appearance
Buxus Balearica is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 2 meters. It has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem.This plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellowish-green in color. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are followed by small, round, green fruits that turn brown when mature.
Care Guide
Buxus Balearica is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid over-watering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall.- Soil: Plant Buxus Balearica in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Buxus Balearica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buxus Balearica is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Boxwood leafminer: This pest tunnels through the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting.- Boxwood psyllid: This pest causes the leaves to curl and turn yellow.- Boxwood blight: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.
Habitat
Buxus Balearica is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky, dry, and sunny habitats. It can be found in Spain, France, Italy, and other countries in the region.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Buxus Balearica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Buxus Balearica can be grown in containers, but it requires regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune my Buxus Balearica?
A: Prune the plant once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is Buxus Balearica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Buxus Balearica is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: What is the best time to plant Buxus Balearica?
A: The best time to plant Buxus Balearica is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Buxus Balearica:- Buxus sempervirens- Buxus microphylla- Buxus harlandii- Buxus sinica
References
– “Buxus Balearica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287584.- “Buxus Balearica.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/223682/i-buxus-balearica-i/details.
