Boxwood, a durable, dense, and finely grained wood typically white or light yellow, is sourced from the common box (Buxus sempervirens) and other small trees within the Buxus genus. These adaptable shrubs are straightforward to maintain, grow rapidly, and boast various advantages, including resistance to deer. Widely recognized as one of the most commonly cultivated evergreen landscape shrubs, boxwood plants contribute year-round visual appeal to outdoor spaces. This makes them a favored option for gardeners seeking a lush, low-maintenance landscape. Additionally, boxwoods exhibit versatility by being suitable for planting in front of other plants and trees, creating an appealing backdrop.
See also: Teak tree: Maintenance tips and uses of Tectona grandis
Boxwood: Key facts
| Botanical name | Buxus spp. |
| Common names | Boxwood, English boxwood, box |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Plant type | Shrub |
| Mature size | 2-8 ft. tall, 2-8 ft. wide |
| Sun exposure | Full, partial |
| Soil type | Loamy |
| Soil pH | Neutral, alkaline |
| Bloom time | Spring |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
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Boxwood shrubs: Types
‘Suffruticosa’ cultivars of Buxus sempervirens are preferred in gardens due to their slower growth. These shrubs typically reach heights of 2 to 3 feet with a spread of 2 to 4 feet.
Buxus sempervirens ‘Arborescens’ is notably larger and faster-growing, attaining heights of up to 20 feet and spreading 8 to 10 feet.
‘Monrue Green Tower’, a Buxus sempervirens variety, takes on a columnar form, reaching a height of 9 feet and spreading 1 to 2 feet.Â
Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) is highly favored for low hedges and in situations where a more drought-tolerant shrub is desired. Japanese boxwoods are prominently featured in various historic sites in the Far East.
Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Winter Gem’ reaches heights of 4 to 6 feet with a similar spread. The cultivar derives its name from the attractive gold and bronze hues of its foliage in winter.
‘Golden Triumph,’ a Buxus microphylla japonica variety, stands at 2 to 3 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide, valued for its variegated leaves.
Boxwood shrubs: Propagation
Using clean pruning shears, snip stem tips from new growth, aiming for lengths of 3 to 4 inches. Eliminate the lower leaves and scrape the bark from one side of the cuttings.
Plant the cut ends of the stems in a pot containing a blend of sand, peat moss, and vermiculite. Ensure the potting mixture is moist, seal the pot in a plastic bag, and position it in a well-lit area.
Monitor the moisture daily and mist the cutting whenever it appears dry. Assess the development of roots every few days by gently tugging on the cutting.
Once the roots have adequately formed, take the pot out of the plastic bag and transfer the cutting into another container filled with a nutrient-rich potting mix.
Continue cultivating the plant in a sunny window until the time for outdoor planting arrives in the subsequent spring.
Boxwood shrubs: How to grow from seeds?
Cultivating a boxwood shrub from seed demands patience but is frequently rewarding. Begin by utilizing 2-inch pots filled with organic potting soil, ensuring they possess effective drainage holes—adding a small amount of gravel to the bottom can enhance drainage.
Place the seeds within moist paper towels and store them in the refrigerator for one month, ensuring the towels remain damp. Following this refrigeration period, transfer the paper towels and seeds to a warmer environment at approximately 21 degrees Celsius. Keep the paper towels constantly damp, and anticipate seed germination within about a month.
Upon sprouting, plant the seeds in the pots with the sprout side facing downward, allowing for one seed per pot. Cover the pots with plastic wrap and position them in a sunlit area, maintaining soil moisture. Once a green shoot emerges above the soil, remove the plastic wrap. Care for the seedlings in their pots until they outgrow them, signaling readiness for hardening off and transplantation outdoors.
Boxwood shrubs: Common problems
“Winter bronzing” is a prevalent issue for boxwood, characterized by a transition to reddish-brown or yellowish foliage color due to winter exposure to wind and sun. One approach to tackle this problem is to apply an anti-desiccant on the shrubs in late November and again in late January, while also ensuring adequate watering throughout the growing season. Alternatively, constructing a protective structure around the bushes can shield them from winter winds and sun. However, it’s worth noting that some gardeners do not find issue with, and may even appreciate, the winter bronzing on the foliage.
Boxwood shrubs: Toxicity
Boxwood (Buxus) shrubs are generally acknowledged as harmful to humans, pets, and livestock due to the presence of toxic compounds known as buxine and cyclobuxine, which are alkaloids found in the plant. Ingesting any part of the boxwood plant, such as leaves, stems, and branches, can lead to symptoms of poisoning.
Common signs of boxwood toxicity encompass nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and, in severe instances, convulsions. If there is a suspicion of ingestion, it is essential to promptly seek medical attention for humans, and for pets, veterinary care should be sought.
Given the hazardous nature of boxwood, caution is advised when planting these shrubs, particularly in areas accessible to children and pets. In cases of concern regarding boxwood toxicity or accidental ingestion, it is crucial to promptly contact a medical professional or a poison control center. If there is suspicion that a pet has ingested boxwood, consulting with a veterinarian as soon as possible is recommended.
FAQs
Are boxwood shrubs toxic?
Yes, boxwood shrubs (Buxus) are generally considered toxic to humans, pets, and livestock. The plant contains toxic alkaloids, including buxine and cyclobuxine. Ingesting any part of the boxwood plant can result in symptoms of poisoning.
What are the symptoms of boxwood toxicity?
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, convulsions. Immediate medical attention is crucial if ingestion is suspected, and veterinary care is recommended for pets.
How can I protect my children and pets from boxwood toxicity?
Exercise caution when planting boxwood shrubs in areas accessible to children and pets. Educate family members about the toxicity of boxwood, and promptly seek medical or veterinary attention if ingestion occurs.
Can I still plant boxwood shrubs in my garden despite their toxicity?
Yes, but it's important to be aware of the risks. Plant boxwood in areas less frequented by children and pets. Consider alternative shrubs if you have concerns about toxicity.
What care practices can enhance the health of boxwood shrubs?
Provide well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and regular watering. Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased parts. Protect against winter bronzing by applying anti-desiccants.
When is the best time to plant or transplant boxwood shrubs?
Early spring or fall is the ideal time for planting or transplanting boxwood shrubs. This allows the plants to establish their roots before facing the stress of summer heat or winter cold.
How to care for boxwood shrubs during winter?
Protect boxwood shrubs from winter winds and sun exposure, which can cause bronzing. Apply anti-desiccants, provide a windbreak, or consider constructing a protective structure.
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