Contents
Description
Buxus Sempervirens, commonly known as common boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It has a dense, compact growth habit and can reach a height of up to 20 feet. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and glossy, while the bark is smooth and grayish-brown. The shrub produces small, insignificant flowers in the spring and summer, followed by small, round, green fruit that turns brown in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Tracheophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Buxales
Family: Buxaceae
Genus: Buxus
Appearance
Buxus Sempervirens is a slow-growing shrub with a dense, compact growth habit. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and glossy, and measure about 1 to 2 inches long. The shrub can reach a height of up to 20 feet and has a spread of up to 15 feet. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown, and the shrub produces small, insignificant flowers in the spring and summer, followed by small, round, green fruit that turns brown in the fall.
Care Guide
Water: Boxwood shrubs require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. They prefer well-draining soil and should not be over-watered.
Fertilization: Boxwood shrubs should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause growth problems.
Soil: Boxwood shrubs prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types but do not grow well in heavy, poorly-drained soil.
Sunlight: Boxwood shrubs prefer partial shade to full sun. They can tolerate shade but may not grow as dense or compact in shady areas.
Hardiness Zones: Boxwood shrubs are hardy from USDA Zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boxwood shrubs are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:
Boxwood leafminer: A small fly that lays eggs in the leaves, causing yellowing and browning of the foliage.
Boxwood mite: A tiny pest that feeds on the leaves, causing yellowing and distortion of the foliage.
Boxwood blight: A fungal disease that causes leaf drop and defoliation, as well as cankers on the stems and branches.
Phytophthora root rot: A fungal disease that causes root rot, leading to poor growth and dieback.
Habitat
Buxus Sempervirens is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and is commonly used as a hedge or topiary plant in formal gardens. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The shrub prefers partial shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA Zones 5-8.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Buxus Sempervirens?
A: Boxwood shrubs require regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. They prefer well-draining soil and should not be over-watered.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Buxus Sempervirens?
A: Boxwood shrubs should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause growth problems.
Q: How can I prevent boxwood blight?
A: Boxwood blight can be prevented by planting disease-resistant cultivars, avoiding overhead watering, and practicing good sanitation by removing infected plant material.
Q: Can Buxus Sempervirens be used as a topiary plant?
A: Yes, Buxus Sempervirens is commonly used as a hedge or topiary plant in formal gardens.
Related Plants
- Buxus Microphylla
- Buxus Harlandii
- Buxus Sinica
- Buxus Chinensis
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Pub. L.L.C.
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Viburnums: Flowering Shrubs for Every Season. Timber Press.
- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for urban and suburban landscapes. Delmar Publishers.
