Japanese box - Buxus microphylla (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Japanese box

Also known as: Littleleaf boxwood

Japanese box (Buxus microphylla) is a dwarf evergreen shrub native to Japan and China. This species is also called the Japanese box. Japanese box is often planted in ornamental hedging. One cultivar of this species is often grown as a bonsai tree. In Japan, japanese box wood is used to make a hanko, or printing stamp seal.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese box (Buxus microphylla)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Green, Bronze

Leaf Color

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese box

Distribution of Japanese box

Distribution Map

Japanese box is a plant species originally native to East Asia, finding its natural habitat across significant parts of the continent. It has since been introduced and become established in regions of North America and South Asia. In addition to its natural range, japanese box has been widely cultivated, which has contributed to its presence in various other locales globally.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Buxus microphylla, along with the other boxes, is widely used in landscaping and is particularly suited for topiary and hedges. However, many people don't know that, despite its widespread uses, all parts of japanese box are poisonous if ingested. In some people, japanese box can even cause skin irritation.

Name Story

Japanese box||Littleleaf boxwood||Small-leaved box||Little-leaf box: The dense timber of Buxus microphylla, so as the other shrubs of the Buxus genus, has been used for making ornamental boxes, handles, instruments, violin pegs, and various small wooden objects, so that could be the origin of both botanical and common names. The epithets 'littleleaf' and 'small-leaved' refer to the small leaves of Buxus microphylla that are smaller compared to other boxes.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese box, including the following common varieties :

Japanese box 'Faulkner'

Toxicity

Japanese box is mildly toxic to humans, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. For cats and dogs it poses a moderate risk, leading to symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, seizures, or respiratory failure if ingested. All parts of the plant are toxic and immediate veterinary care is necessary for pets showing signs of poisoning. Avoid accidental ingestion. Japanese box contains toxic alkaloids.

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Quickly Identify Japanese box

Compact growth reaching 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) with glossy dark green leaves.

Oppositely arranged squarish stems when young with fine, clustered foliage.

Small, non-showy greenish-yellow flowers in spring, fragrant and bee-attracting.

Distinctly dehiscent 3-celled brown capsules for seed dispersal among foliage.

Square stems transitioning from green to brown, measuring about 0.2 inches (5 mm).

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Care Guide for Japanese box

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese box adapts well to variable moisture and prefers watering every 1-2 weeks, maintaining moist but not waterlogged soil. An evergreen, it is often grown outdoors and is favored for its low maintenance, offering hydration efficiency throughout the seasons.

Fertilize: For optimal health, japanese box requires balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring and high nitrogen during growth. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, following package instructions. Reduce feeding in fall and winter, using slow-release granules. Water thoroughly after application to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Japanese box is a dense, evergreen shrub with glossy leaves. Prune in early to late winter during dormancy to improve air circulation and light penetration. Use sterilized tools to prevent infections, and pruning promotes bushier growth while minimizing sap loss and stress.

Propagation: Japanese box is an evergreen shrub ideal for hedges and borders. Propagate via semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants, using sharp, sterilized tools. Ensure cuttings contain leaves and consider rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil and keep consistently moist for strong root development.

Repotting: Repot japanese box every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger container with well-draining soil. After repotting, water thoroughly and place in partial shade. Regular pruning maintains shape and promotes vigorous new growth.

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