Japanese boxwoods provide an excellent backdrop for colorful gardens. The dense green foliage of the boxwood makes it an ideal plant for hedges or can be used as foundation plants. This low-maintenance plant does well in zones 6-9, tolerating temperatures when they dip below freezing. When planting in cooler zones, protect the roots by mulching and the bush canopy with a cover when it gets too cold. These plants thrive in moist soils but cannot tolerate wet feet, so steer clear of low-lying areas.
Place Japanese boxwoods about 5 feet away from the home’s foundation and plant with about a 3 feet separation between plants. This separation will give the plant enough space to grow, and it will provide you with enough space to walk between the plant and the house. Fertilize using a well-balanced, all-purpose fertilizer about three times a year, starting in the spring.
Note: These plants are grown for decorative purposes and are not intended for human or animal consumption
FAST FACTS
Outstanding Features: Dense foliage, excellent hedge plant
Common Name
Japanese Boxwood
Bloom Colors
No significant flower
Water
Moderately and consistently moist
Zone
6-9 and above
Fertilizer
Feed periodically during the growing season with an all-purpose fertilizer
Scientific Name
Buxus microphylla japonica
Light
Direct sun, can tolerate part sun
Size
If left unpruned, 6-8 feet wide and about 10-15 feet tall
Overwintering
In zones 5 and lower, use as a container plant or as an annual in the landscape
Companion Plants
Sweet potato vine, Ixora, Aztec grass