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Description
Buxus Megistophylla, commonly known as large-leaved boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub with an upright and rounded habit. It belongs to the Buxaceae family and is native to China. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide and has an average lifespan of 75-150 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Buxales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Buxus |
Appearance
Buxus Megistophylla has large, glossy, dark green leaves that measure up to 5 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The leaves are oval in shape and have a slightly pointed tip. The plant produces small, pale yellow flowers in early spring that are not showy. The bark of the plant is smooth and brown in color.
Care Guide
Water: Buxus Megistophylla prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.Soil: The plant grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil.Sunlight: Buxus Megistophylla prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate some sunlight.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buxus Megistophylla is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including boxwood leafminer, boxwood mite, and boxwood blight. These pests and diseases can cause leaf drop, yellowing of leaves, and defoliation. To prevent these problems, inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations or diseases immediately.
Habitat
Buxus Megistophylla is native to China and can be found growing in woodlands, rocky slopes, and hillsides. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Buxus Megistophylla?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Buxus Megistophylla?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.Q: What pests and diseases affect Buxus Megistophylla?
A: Buxus Megistophylla is susceptible to boxwood leafminer, boxwood mite, and boxwood blight.Q: How tall and wide can Buxus Megistophylla grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Buxus Microphylla
- Buxus Sempervirens
- Buxus Harlandii
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Timber Press.
- Gilman, E. F. (2010). Buxus microphylla var. japonica, Buxus harlandii, Buxus sinica var. insularis, Buxus microphylla var. koreana, Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’: Boxwood. University of Florida.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Buxus megistophylla. Retrieved September 17, 2021, from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=260982&isprofile=0&basic=Buxus%20megistophylla
