Littleleaf Boxwood Buxus microphylla

Littleleaf boxwood is an evergreen shrub in the Buxaceae (boxwood) family and native to Japan. Buxus is the Latin name for boxwood or box tree. 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. 

Like other boxwoods, littleleaf boxwood prefers moist, cool, well-drained soil and is adaptable to various soil types. Since the roots are shallow, mulch heavily to help retain moisture. Once established this plant is typically quite drought tolerant. Plant in full sun to light shade but provide some protection from wind and winter weather, as foliage tends to turn an orangish-brown with extremes on some varieties. It prunes exceptionally well, but do not prune until after the possibility of a late spring frost to prevent damage to new growth.  Propagate by stem cuttings, which root easily. This plant is resistant to damage by rabbits and deer.

Littleleaf boxwood is a versatile slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub that provides landscape interest in all four seasons. It has the smallest leaves of all the boxwoods creating a densely packed surface that is easily shaped into a medium-size hedge, topiary, or bonsai. Small non-showy flowers arrive in the spring and provide a nice fragrance for a short time.

Grow it in a container, along a border, or as an edging or hedge. It also is appropriate as an accent, specimen, placed in small groups, mass planted, or used along a foundation.

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

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

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

More information on Buxus.