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Description
Buxus Sinica Var. Parvifolia, commonly known as Chinese Boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It is native to China and can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide when mature. This plant is popular among gardeners and landscapers due to its small, glossy leaves and compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hedges, topiaries, and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Buxales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Buxus |
Appearance
Buxus Sinica Var. Parvifolia has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are oblong or oval-shaped, measuring about 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. It has a dense growth habit and can be pruned into various shapes, making it ideal for topiaries and hedges. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small brown fruit that is not edible.
Care Guide
Water: Chinese Boxwood prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, more during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Soil: Buxus Sinica Var. Parvifolia prefers soil that is slightly acidic to neutral with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It also prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining.
Sunlight: Chinese Boxwood prefers partial shade to full sun. Too much shade can result in poor growth, while too much sun can cause leaf scorch.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buxus Sinica Var. Parvifolia is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including boxwood leafminer, boxwood psyllid, boxwood mite, and boxwood blight. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems, resulting in stunted growth and death of the plant. Diseases such as root rot, canker, and leaf spot can also affect the plant if not properly cared for. To prevent and treat these issues, it is recommended to keep the plant healthy with proper watering, fertilization, and pruning, and to remove any infected or damaged parts of the plant.
Habitat
Buxus Sinica Var. Parvifolia is native to China and is commonly found in woodlands, rocky slopes, and hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Chinese Boxwood tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Chinese Boxwood is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate frost.
Q: How often should I prune my Chinese Boxwood?
A: Chinese Boxwood can be pruned once a year in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can I grow Chinese Boxwood in a container?
A: Yes, Chinese Boxwood can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with well-draining soil, adequate water and fertilizer, and protection from extreme temperatures.
Q: Can Chinese Boxwood be used as a bonsai plant?
A: Yes, Chinese Boxwood is a popular choice for bonsai due to its small leaves and compact growth habit.
Related Plants
- Buxus sempervirens (Common Boxwood)
- Buxus microphylla (Japanese Boxwood)
- Buxus harlandii (Harland Boxwood)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Buxus Sinica var. Parvifolia. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281332&isprofile=0&pt=2.
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2018). Boxwood Growing in the Florida Landscape. University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep472.
