Buxus sinica var. insularisKorean boxwood
科:黄杨科
Family:Buxaceae
属:黄杨属
common name:Korean boxwood
introduce:Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Buxaceae
Missouri Native: No
Native Range: Korea
Height: 2 to 2.5 feet
Spread: 3 to 4 feet
Bloom Time: April
Bloom Color: Greenish yellow
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium moisture
Maintenance: Medium
General Culture:
Best grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, sandy loams. Tolerant of pruning and shearing. In USDA Zones 4 to 6, this boxwood is best sited in a sheltered location which protects it from winter winds. Avoid cultivating around plants because they have shallow roots. Roots appreciate a good mulch.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Korean littleleaf boxwood is a dense, compact, many-branched, broad, mounded evergreen shrub with a loose and open habit. A slow grower (to 1.5" per year) which is typically grown as a 2-2.5 tall shrub with a larger spread, but which can reach 5 tall after 25 years if not pruned lower. An extremely hardy variety that is a good choice for northern climates. Apetalous, greenish yellow flowers (separate male and female flowers on the same plant) appear in spring. Flowers are sparse and insignificant, but quite fragrant. Small, ovate, light yellowish green to medium green leaves (to 3/4" long). Formerly known as and sometimes still sold as Buxus microphylla var. koreana.
Boxwoods can be somewhat temperamental plants to grow in the St. Louis area where foliage tends to bronze (turn unattractive brownish yellow) in harsh winters, particularly if plants are located in open areas exposed to winter winds. Otherwise, requires little care other than pruning. Some susceptibility to blight and leaf spots. Root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soils. Shows good resistance to the three main insect pests of boxwood (leaf miner, psyllids and mites).
Uses:
Best as a hedge or foundation plant. May be massed or used as a specimen or accent. Formal gardens or shrub borders. Bonsai plant.
