Buxus harlandii

Harland boxwood is an evergreen shrub in the Buxaceae (boxwood) family and native to Guangdong province, Hainan Island, and Hong Kong, China. Buxus is the Latin name for boxwood or box tree. Originally from Europe and Asia, boxwoods are one of the oldest known garden plants, dating back to 4000 BC. The common name of boxwood refers to the wood used to make carved decorative boxes. Another etymology is that boxwood describes the square stems of its young plants.

Harland boxwood grows well in clay, loam, and sandy soils in full to partial sun. It has some drought tolerance and better pest resistance than most boxwoods; however, it has limited cold tolerance. In northern areas, it should be planted in a location protected from strong winds. Winter winds can remove moisture from the leaves, resulting in dehydration and bronzing.

Harland boxwood leafs out early and is tolerant of pruning, which should be done after the last frost. Pruning will lead to tender new shoots, which can be damaged by a late frost. Its shallow roots should be protected with a layer of mulch. Limit cultivation around these shallow roots, as it can damage the plant. Thinning plants annually will assist with air circulation. 

Place Harland boxwood beside a patio or along a walkway as a border, hedge, or foundation plant. It is also appropriate in a drought-tolerant or winter garden. In the deep south, this plant is sometimes grown in containers.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Some susceptibility to leaf spot and boxwood blight which causes premature defoliation and dieback. Richard’ is a cultivar least susceptible to boxwood blight. Poorly drained soils may cause root rot. Susceptible to boxwood leaf miner and boxwood mites. Foliar injury during harsh winters.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common boxwood insect pests and diseases.

For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Buxus.