Buxales

Description

Buxales is a small order of woody plants that includes only two families: Buxaceae and Haptanthaceae. The order is characterized by its simple, alternate leaves and unisexual flowers that lack petals. Buxales plants are primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species occurring in South America, Africa, and Madagascar. They are commonly used as ornamental plants and have great horticultural importance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Buxales plants are typically small, evergreen shrubs or trees with simple, alternate leaves. The leaves are usually leathery and glossy, and may be lanceolate or elliptical in shape. The flowers are small and unisexual, with male and female flowers occurring on separate plants. The flowers lack petals and are typically green or yellow in color. The fruit is a capsule or berry.

Care Guide

Buxales plants are generally easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on caring for Buxales:Water: Buxales plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be kept too wet. Water regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.Fertilization: Fertilize Buxales plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Buxales plants prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.Sunlight: Buxales plants prefer partial shade to full sun, depending on the species. Check the specific requirements of your plant before placing it in your garden.Hardiness Zones: Buxales plants are generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9, depending on the species.

Common Pests & Diseases

Buxales plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by the following:Pests: Buxales plants may be affected by scale insects or spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases: Buxales plants may be affected by root rot or leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Buxales plants are primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species occurring in South America, Africa, and Madagascar. They are commonly found in woodland habitats and may also occur in rocky outcrops or other dry areas.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the most common Buxales plant used as an ornamental plant?
A: Buxus sempervirens, commonly known as English boxwood, is the most commonly used Buxales plant in landscaping.Q: Are Buxales plants poisonous to humans or animals?
A: Yes, some Buxales plants contain toxic compounds that can be harmful if ingested.Q: Can Buxales plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Buxales plants can be grown in containers. However, they may need to be pruned regularly to maintain their shape.Q: What is the hardiness zone of Buxus microphylla?
A: Buxus microphylla is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Buxales order:

• Buxus microphylla
• Buxus sempervirens
• Haptanthus hazlettii

References

• Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s plant-book: a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Cambridge University Press.
• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Buxales. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=o820