The classic clipped formal-hedge and topiary plant, with small glossy rounded leaves on dense slow growth. More heat-tolerant than English box and the standard low border edge in Australian gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Box
Buxus microphylla var. japonica is a slow-growing shrub in the Buxaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Cream green flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Japanese Box
Japanese Box suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Japanese Box does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 60 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Box does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Japanese Box after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Japanese Box in the garden
Japanese Box earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, clipping into topiary, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Japanese Box sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Japanese Box
Plant Sale lists Japanese Box as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
