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Description
Buxus Sinica Var. Insularis, commonly known as Korean Boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to Korea and Japan. It belongs to the Buxaceae family and has a compact and bushy growth habit. This plant is popularly grown for its ornamental value and is widely used in gardens, landscapes, and as hedges.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Buxales |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Genus | Buxus |
Appearance
Korean Boxwood is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 5 feet and a spread of 4 feet. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and about 1-2 inches long. The bark is light brown and smooth. The flowers are small and yellowish-green and bloom in late spring. The fruit is a small capsule that contains 3 seeds.
Care Guide
Korean Boxwood requires moderate maintenance and care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Soil: Korean Boxwood prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Korean Boxwood is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Korean Boxwood is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Boxwood Leafminer: This pest lays eggs in the leaves, and the larvae cause damage by tunneling through the foliage.
- Boxwood Psyllid: This pest causes damage by feeding on the sap of the plant, which results in yellowing and curling of the leaves.
- Boxwood Blight: This fungal disease causes dark spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and drop off.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Korean Boxwood is native to Korea and Japan, where it grows in the understory of forests and on rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Korean Boxwood be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Korean Boxwood can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I prune my Korean Boxwood?
A: Prune your plant once a year in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is Korean Boxwood deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Korean Boxwood is deer-resistant.
Q: When is the best time to plant Korean Boxwood?
A: The best time to plant Korean Boxwood is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.
Related Plants
- Buxus Microphylla
- Buxus Sempervirens
- Buxus Harlandii
References
- “Buxus sinica var. insularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c903.
- “Korean Boxwood – Buxus sinica var. insularis.” Plant Care Today, 9 Sept. 2019, plantcaretoday.com/korean-boxwood-buxus-sinica-var-insularis.
- “Buxus sinica var. insularis (Korean Boxwood).” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/buxus-sinica-var-insularis-korean-boxwood.
