Buxus sempervirens

Species of flowering plant in the family Buxaceae

Buxus sempervirens, commonly known as boxwood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Buxaceae, native to western and southern Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant, widely used in gardens and landscapes for its dense, evergreen foliage and ability to be shaped into hedges and topiaries.

Description

A formal garden featuring Buxus sempervirens at Alden Biesen

Buxus sempervirens is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 1 to 9 meters. The leaves are opposite, glossy, dark green, and oval, measuring 1.5 to 3 cm long. The plant produces small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in the spring, which are monoecious, meaning both male and female flowers are found on the same plant. The fruit is a small capsule containing several seeds.

Cultivation

Buxus sempervirens is highly valued in horticulture for its versatility and ease of maintenance. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. The plant is often used in formal gardens, where it is clipped into hedges, borders, and topiary shapes. It is also suitable for container planting.

Uses

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A flute made from boxwood

The wood of Buxus sempervirens is hard, dense, and fine-grained, making it ideal for carving and turning. It has been traditionally used to make musical instruments, such as flutes and recorders, as well as for inlays and fine woodwork. The plant's dense foliage and ability to be shaped make it a popular choice for creating privacy screens and windbreaks in gardens.

Pests and Diseases

Buxus sempervirens is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including boxwood blight, a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, stem cankers, and defoliation. Other common pests include boxwood leafminer and boxwood mite. Proper cultural practices, such as maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, can help prevent these issues.

Ecological Impact

In some regions, Buxus sempervirens has become naturalized and can outcompete native vegetation, leading to ecological imbalances. It is important to manage its spread in non-native areas to preserve local biodiversity.

Related pages

• Buxaceae
• Topiary
• Hedge (gardening)