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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Littleleaf box
(Buxus microphylla)
Also Known As
Littleleaf box, Japanese boxwood, Korean boxwood, Littleleaf boxwood
About This Plant
Buxus microphylla is a species of evergreen shrub with small, glossy green leaves. It is a popular choice for hedging and topiary due to its dense growth habit and ability to be pruned into various shapes.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 m)
Light Requirements
Buxus microphylla prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade as well. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Humidity Needs
Buxus microphylla prefers moderate to high humidity levels, but it can tolerate lower humidity as well.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall or winter.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Buxus microphylla can be pruned into various shapes, including hedges, topiaries, and bonsai.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests include boxwood leafminer, boxwood mite, and boxwood psyllid. Diseases include boxwood blight and root rot.
Indoor Size Range
12-36 inches (30-91 cm)
Watering Schedule
Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Buxus microphylla prefers moist, well-draining soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Temperature Range
Buxus microphylla can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -10 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (-23 to 38 degrees Celsius), but it prefers moderate temperatures.
Growing Season
Buxus microphylla can be grown year-round in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Growing Difficulty Level
Buxus microphylla is moderately easy to grow, but it requires regular maintenance, including pruning and pest control.
USDA Hardiness Zones
6-9
Did You Know?
Buxus microphylla has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
