Japanese Boxwood
Japanese Boxwood
A classic, gorgeous choice for a border or planted closer together as a hedge, the Japanese Boxwood is a common shrub used in a wide variety of landscaping displays. Easy to grow and with a good grow rate so you don’t have to wait a lifetime for them to be the size you want; this particular variety of Boxwood shrub is slightly larger than others and is also a somewhat lighter shade of green than other varieties. Boasting a mature height of 5-6 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide in full sun to partial shade and average, slightly cool and moist soil, growing the Japanese Boxwood is as simple as planting it in the ground and establishing a proper root structure. Not only is the dark green foliage gorgeous all year long, in the Spring, small creamy yellow flowers also develop in small clusters that are surprisingly fragrant for their size.
The Japanese Boxwood offers year-round greenery and is incredibly easy to care for, making it a versatile choice for gardeners of all experience levels. Its compact size, tolerance to pruning, and ability to withstand heat and cold make it a reliable and stylish addition to any landscape. Whether you’re looking for a low hedge, topiary, or an evergreen accent, Japanese Boxwood delivers classic beauty with minimal effort.
Planting & Care Instructions:
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but adapts to a variety of soil types.
• Height & Spread: Grows 3-4 feet tall and wide.
• Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA Zones 6-9.
Questions & Answers
Have a Question?
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Dog friendly
it is considered nontoxic to dogs, but with that being said always monitor your dog to prevent them from chewing on the plant. Any large amounts of ingested plant material could potentially cause digestive upset.
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Can Japanese boxwood grow in Iowa
Yes, Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) can grow in Iowa, but there are some important considerations to ensure its success.
Growing Conditions for Japanese Boxwood in Iowa:
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USDA Hardiness Zones: Iowa falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 6, depending on the specific location. Japanese boxwood is hardy to Zone 6, which means it might struggle in the colder parts of Iowa, particularly in Zone 4.
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Winter Protection: In the colder areas of Iowa (Zone 4 and possibly Zone 5), Japanese boxwood may need extra protection during harsh winters. Mulching around the base of the plant and providing a windbreak can help protect it from winter burn.
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Site Selection: Choose a location with well-drained soil and partial to full sun. Avoid planting in areas where it will be exposed to strong winter winds or intense afternoon sun, which can cause stress.
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Soil Conditions: Boxwoods prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH soil and good drainage. Heavy clay soils should be amended to improve drainage.
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Watering: Consistent watering is important, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering as Japanese boxwood does not like soggy soil.
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Pests and Diseases: Boxwoods can be susceptible to pests like boxwood leafminer and diseases such as boxwood blight. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.
Alternative Options:
If you're in the colder parts of Iowa and are concerned about the hardiness of Japanese boxwood, consider using a hardier boxwood variety, such as Buxus sempervirens (common boxwood) or Buxus sinica var. insularis (Korean boxwood), which may better withstand Iowa's winters.
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The shrubbery was bagged individually and placed in a box neatly. I was very please with the presentation and quality of the shrubs. I will purchase again.