Buxus microphylla japonica is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that is native to Japan. Despite its name, it is not a member of the buxus genus, but is instead a member of the box family. It grows to a height of 2-3 meters and has oval to lanceolate leaves that are 2-8 centimeters long. The leaves are green to dark green in color and are arranged in opposite pairs on the stem. The plant flowers in the spring, with small, greenish-white flowers that are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains a single seed.
Related plant:
Buxus Japonica
Related plant:
Buxus Green Gem
About soil condition, buxus microphylla japonica can tolerate many types of soil but prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is high in organic matter. They are not tolerant of wet soils. this species can be prone to chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) in high pH soils.
So, like the other buxus microphylla japonica, this plant also does best in full sun to partial shade. It will grow in full shade, but the leaves may be a little lighter in color and the plant may be a little less compact. It is important to note that too much sun can scorch the leaves, so it is important to find a spot that gets bright, indirect light.
The temperature condition for buxus microphylla japonica is that it should be kept in a temperature that is between 68- to 72-degrees Fahrenheit. This shrub does not tolerate temperatures below 60-degrees Fahrenheit too well and may experience dieback. Also, it is not recommended to prune this shrub in late fall or winter because the new growth may be damaged by the cold weather.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% to 60%. However, it can still survive if the humidity is as low as 40%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will turn brown and fall off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will develop white spots.
The fertilizer, this plant requires, should be applied, in early spring and again in mid-summer. Buxus microphylla japonica, is a slow grower, however, it can reach a height, of 15 feet, given the right conditions. The root system is dense and anchoring, making it ideal, for use in erosion control.
Pruning is an important cultural practice for maintaining the desired size and shape of Buxus microphylla japonica. This species is often pruned into formal shapes such as hedges, topiary, and foundation plantings.Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back one-third to one-half of last yearÂ’s growth. Make cuts just above an outward-facing bud.
Propagation is typically done through rooting stem cuttings, which can be taken from the tips of young shoots in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches (15 cm) long, and they should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The bottom two leaves on each cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained potting mix. The pot should be kept in bright, indirect light and the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. After a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and summer, when the weather is warm and there is plenty of rainfall. However, the plant can also grow during the fall and winter, as long as the temperature is not too cold and the ground is not frozen. The plant's growth rate is determined by the amount of sunlight it receives, the amount of water it gets, and the type of soil it is growing in.
Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, stem canker, and root rot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. Stem canker is also caused by a fungus and appears as sunken, dark brown or black areas on the stems. Root rot is caused by a fungus or bacteria and appears as brown or black spots on the roots.
Source:
TTU Plant Resources - depts.ttu.edu
Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Green Beauty' | Gardens
Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Green Beauty' | Gardens
