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Description
Buxus Sempervirens Suffruticosa, commonly known as the dwarf boxwood or English boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Buxaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its compact size and attractive appearance. The plant is commonly used for hedges, topiary, and borders because of its dense foliage and slow growth rate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Buxales |
| Family: | Buxaceae |
| Genus: | Buxus |
Appearance
The dwarf boxwood typically grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, but it can reach up to 4 feet in ideal conditions. The plant has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are ovate in shape and grow in opposite pairs along the stems. The leaves are about 1 inch long and half an inch wide, and they have a leathery texture. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, which are followed by small green fruits that turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Water: The dwarf boxwood prefers moist but well-drained soil. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: The dwarf boxwood grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate shade but may grow more slowly.
Hardiness Zones: The dwarf boxwood is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The dwarf boxwood is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including boxwood blight, root rot, leaf miner, and spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment can help prevent these issues. Proper pruning and maintenance can also help keep the plant healthy.
Habitat
The dwarf boxwood is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks throughout the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my dwarf boxwood?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. It prefers moist but well-drained soil.
Q: Can I grow dwarf boxwood in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and is watered regularly.
Q: How tall does dwarf boxwood grow?
A: The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and wide, but it can reach up to 4 feet in ideal conditions.
Q: What is boxwood blight?
A: Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that can cause defoliation and death of boxwood plants. It is spread by spores and can be difficult to control.
Related Plants
- Buxus sempervirens
- Buxus microphylla
- Buxus sinica
References
- “Buxus sempervirens suffruticosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262118.
- “Dwarf Boxwood.” The Spruce. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/dwarf-boxwood-growing-profile-5070719.
- “Boxwood Blight.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed October 22, 2021. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/plant-connections/2019-07-01-boxwood-blight.
