Boxwood

Boxwood refers to a group of about 70 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees in the genus Buxus, family Buxaceae. These plants are native to western and southern Europe, southwest, southern and eastern Asia, Africa, Madagascar, northernmost South America, Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Description

Boxwood plants are characterized by their small, glossy, and leathery leaves. The leaves are typically opposite, simple, and entire, with a rounded or slightly notched apex. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with no petals, and are typically greenish-yellow. They are monoecious, with both male and female flowers on the same plant. The fruit is a small capsule containing several seeds.

Species

Some of the most well-known species of boxwood include:

• Buxus sempervirens - Common boxwood, native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia.
• Buxus microphylla - Japanese boxwood, native to Japan and Taiwan.
• Buxus balearica - Balearic boxwood, native to the Balearic Islands and parts of Spain.

Cultivation and Uses

Boxwood is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is particularly valued for its dense, evergreen foliage and its ability to be shaped into hedges, topiaries, and other forms. Boxwood is also used in bonsai.

Care and Maintenance

Boxwood prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth. Boxwood is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including boxwood blight, boxwood leafminer, and boxwood mite.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Boxwood has been used for centuries in formal gardens and landscapes. It was particularly popular in Renaissance and Baroque gardens, where it was used to create intricate parterres and knot gardens. Boxwood wood is also highly valued for its fine grain and density, making it ideal for wood carving and the production of musical instruments, such as recorders and flutes.

Related Pages

• Buxus
• Buxaceae
• Topiary
• Hedge
• Bonsai
• Boxwood blight