Species Japanese boxwood
Green leaves on brown-green stems.

Japanese boxwood

Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Midget'

Also Known As - Korean boxwood
Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Midget') is an amazing plant species due to its low maintenance characteristics and natural elements. It is an evergreen shrub that is easy to grow and requires minimal pruning. The semi glossy green foliage is dense, which makes it excellent for use as a thick, low-growing hedge or as an accent in the landscape. Its attractive reddish-brown bark adds an additional layer of interest. It is highly tolerant of wind, pollution and drought, making it an ideal pick for an urban environment. With its compact size, Japanese boxwood is an outstanding choice for small spaces.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Filtered shade, Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Japanese boxwood should be watered deeply once a week in the spring and summer and every 10-12 days in the fall and winter. Watering should take place until the water runs out of the bottom of the pot. Ensure that the soil is not wet by using a soil moisture meter if possible, as overwatering can cause root rot. It is also important to remember to water the plant in the morning and not in the evening, as this will reduce the risk of fungal problems.

sunlight

Japanese boxwood thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. During the summer months, the plant species should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct light per day. In the fall and spring seasons, the sunlight requirement can be reduced to 4 hours per day. It is important to keep in mind that too much sunlight (over 8 hours per day) can damage the plant.

pruning

Japanese boxwood (Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Midget') should be pruned twice per year, once in late spring before new growth appears and then again in mid-summer after new growth has stopped. It is best to prune lightly, removing only slightly more than a quarter of growth every time. Pruning encourages dense foliage and should be done by hand with shears or a sharp knife. You may also use a hedge trimmer, but take care not to cut too deeply as this can damage the plant. Avoid pruning during the peak of summer heat, as this can shock the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Japanese boxwood typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Japanese boxwood typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Midget' is in the months of June and July.

Hardiness Map