buxus

Buxus is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees in the family Buxaceae. With about 70 species, they are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. Boxwoods are valued for dense, glossy foliage and are widely cultivated for formal hedges, borders, and topiary.

Leaves are opposite, simple, and evergreen, typically oval to elliptic, 1–4 cm long, with a fine, leathery texture. The plants are generally slow-growing and form compact to rounded to columnar shapes depending on cultivar. Flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and inconspicuous; fruit is a small capsule containing seeds.

Cultivation and management: Boxwoods prefer well-drained soil and grow best in sun to partial shade. They tolerate a range of soils but dislike waterlogging and drought extremes. They respond well to regular pruning, which maintains their form in hedges and topiary. Hardy in temperate regions; cold tolerance varies by species.

Pests and diseases: Boxwoods are susceptible to boxwood blight, caused by Calonectria pseudonaviculata, as well as leafminers, scale insects, and root rot from Phytophthora species. Good cultural practices, such as avoiding overhead irrigation and ensuring good air circulation, help prevent problems; infested plants may require pruning, treatment, or replacement.