Contents
Description
Buxus Sinica, commonly known as Chinese Boxwood, is an evergreen shrub native to China and Korea. It belongs to the family Buxaceae and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its dense, dark green foliage and its ability to be pruned into various shapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Buxales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Buxus |
Appearance
Chinese Boxwood typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet and a width of 3-4 feet. Its leaves are small, glossy, and oval-shaped, measuring approximately 1 inch in length. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by spherical, pale green fruits.
Care Guide
Chinese Boxwood requires moderate watering and should be fertilized in the spring and fall. It prefers well-drained soil and should be planted in an area with partial to full sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chinese Boxwood is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including boxwood leafminer, boxwood psyllid, boxwood mite, and boxwood blight. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Chinese Boxwood is native to China and Korea and is commonly cultivated in gardens, parks, and landscapes around the world. It prefers well-drained soil and grows best in areas with partial to full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Chinese Boxwood be used for topiary?
A: Yes, Chinese Boxwood is a popular choice for topiary due to its dense foliage and ability to be pruned into various shapes.
Q: How often should Chinese Boxwood be pruned?
A: Chinese Boxwood should be pruned once or twice a year to maintain its desired shape and size.
Q: Is Chinese Boxwood toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Chinese Boxwood is toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach.
Q: How fast does Chinese Boxwood grow?
A: Chinese Boxwood grows slowly, typically adding 3-6 inches of growth per year.
Related Plants
- Buxus Microphylla
- Buxus Sempervirens
- Buxus Harlandii
References
- “Buxus Sinica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d330.
- “Boxwood Shrubs.” Better Homes & Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/boxwood/.
- “Buxus Sinica.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3178/chinese-boxwood/.
