Buxus microphylla var. japonica
Overall Description
Nice,
bright
green oval shaped leaves that are somewhat larger than the
hybrid boxwoods most commonly seen in landscapes. Also a slightly
lighter shade of green than most boxwoods. Makes an excellent medium to
large hedge, and appears to be quite easy to grow. Like all other
boxwoods, prefers cool, moist well drained soils as well as a small
amount of shade to give some protection from scorching summer sun. Good
growth rate, but slightly less cold hardy than some commonly used
Boxwood varieties. Some bronzing / winter discoloration has been
observed in cold, open, or highly exposed planting locations.
Plant Facts & Specifications
Mature Height: 5-6 ft
Mature Width: 4-6 ft.
Growth rate: Moderate ( 6"-10" avg per yr )
Hardiness Zones: 6-9 ( if unsure of your zone, please use zone finder below )
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference: Average. Slightly cool & moist - fertile. Well drained. Mulching recommended.
Foliage Color & Texture: Foliage
is slightly lighter green then most typical B. microphyllus varieties,
especially the hybrid varieties. Leaf shape slightly more rounded - not
as elongated, or "oval" as most of the boxwood hybrids either.
Flower, Cone, Or Berry Facts: Very
small, creamy yellow flowers develop in small clusters in April - May,
and are actually quite fragrant for the brief time that they are
present.
Diseases / Insects: Japanese
Boxwood is much more resistant to most pests / problems that you might
see, or encounter with the more specialized boxwood varieties. Among
the more prevalent problems one might be confronted with when growing
Boxwood would be: Canker, root rot, boxwood leaf miner, boxwood
webworm, nematodes, and boxwood mites. Most all of these pests /
problems are much more commonly seen on Buxus sempervirens cultivars -
other variations / hybrids seem to show much more resistance to these
problems. Root rot ( Phytopthora ) can be a problem in inadequately
drained soils, and is usually indicated by a lighter "off color" to the
foliage. Annual treatment / inspection is strongly recommended during
the early growing season in order to monitor any possible problems, and
as a preventative action.
Fertilization / Feeding: Either
water
soluble ( Miracle Gro, or equivalent ), or granular ( Holly Tone
is excellent ). Other granular types with 6-12-12, or 10-10-10 ratio is
acceptable. Best to fertilize in early spring ( 2-4 individual
applications ), and again in mid fall ( 2 or 3 individual applications
) -
avoid feeding during hot summer months, and directly after
transplanting. 
