Japanese Boxwood

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-6 Feet

Mature Spread

3-6 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 10

The Japanese Boxwood, Buxus microphylla var. Japonica, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that provides interest in the landscape all four seasons. These shrubs will have delicate small flowers in April and May, that are greenish-cream in color and do have a nice fragrance for a short time. These are very popular shrubs in the south due to the low maintenance necessary and the evergreen foliage. 

Plant singly as a specimen or as a superior privacy hedge. Lots of gardeners also grow these in a garden planter for 4 seasons of interest. Of course this plant is native to Japan, but also native to Taiwan. It also also sometimes known as a littleleaf box. If grown in full sun, the leaves will sometimes turn red instead of green. These shrubs are also very deer resistant. 

Japanese Boxwood Care

Prune Japanese Boxwood can be done anytime of the year. However, it is best not to do it in late fall. You can use hand shears or electric trimmers. Do not trim more than 25% deep into the shrub for the best appearance. Water very deep into the ground, twice a week regularly the first year. Once a week watering the 2nd year. And after that it should require little watering except during long periods of drought. Winter hardy in growing zones 6 to 10. These shrubs will grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide when fully mature.

Fertilize in early spring, but not the first year after planting. Keep in mind that many boxwoods are killed by excessive fertilizer applications. We recommend a slow release fertilizer such as a 10-10-10. But fertilizing isn't required for these hardy shrubs. These bushes can handle full sun but do beset in partial sunlight conditions. Well drained soil is also a must. We also recommend applying a layer of mulch to help keep in moisture and protect the roots during extreme weather conditions in summer and winter.

Japanese Boxwood Spacing

Plant 3 to 4 feet from center to center when establishing a privacy hedge or garden border. When planting in the shrub border or as a foundation planting, plant 7 to 8 feet apart, center to center.