Buxus Microphylla var. Japonica

Japanese Boxwood / Japanese Box

Botanical Name: Buxus microphylla var. japonica
Family: Buxaceae
Origin: East Asia (Japan, Korea)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub (formal hedging/topiary)

Overview

The go-to formal hedge/edging shrub: dense, small-leaved mid-green foliage, clips cleanly, and stays neat year-round. Handles sun or part shade in SA; best with afternoon shade in hot districts and reliable moisture while establishing.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 1–2 m H × 1–1.5 m W (unclipped; smaller if regularly trimmed)
• Growth Rate: 10-20 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Small, glossy mid-green leaves; lime-green new growth
• Flowers: Tiny greenish-cream blooms in spring; lightly fragrant (bee-attracting)
  
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen structure; fresh lime flushes after trims
• Wildlife Value: Spring pollen/nectar for bees & beneficials
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant (with mulch/PM shade), wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; frost hardy
• Planting Density: Low hedge (30–60 cm): 4–6 per metre (15–25 cm centres); Medium hedge (60–120 cm): 3–4 per metre (25–35 cm centres); Borders/topiary: space to suit form
• Pet Friendly: Toxic to pets (avoid ingestion). Ingestion may cause vomiting/diarrhoea; keep clippings out of reach.

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (avoid harsh reflected heat)
• Soil: Well-drained loam/sandy loam; enrich with organic matte
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer (weekly in heatwaves); minimal in winter
• Maintenance: Clip 2–4×/yr (little & often). Feed in early spring with slow-release fertiliser; mulch to keep roots cool
• Lifespan: 30–50+ years (very long-lived with care)
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA; shelter from extreme coastal exposure
• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (tolerates slightly acidic)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Formal edging for paths & parterres
• Neat low hedges to frame beds
• Containers/topiary balls at entries for year-round structure

Why You Will Love It

Classic formal look, tight clip, and year-round greenery—the dependable hedge that makes gardens feel finished