Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Japan, Taiwan
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Buxus microphylla is a slow-growing, broadleaf evergreen shrub with small, rounded to lance-shaped leaves. It is highly valued for its dense foliage and tolerance of heavy shearing, making it a classic choice for hedges and topiary. This species, native to Asia, is generally more tolerant of heat and less susceptible to some diseases like boxwood blight compared to its European counterpart, Buxus sempervirens. Its cultivars offer a wide range of sizes and forms.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with well-drained soil; amend heavy clay.
- Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Ensure the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level.
- Backfill with the excavated soil, tamping gently.
- Water deeply and consistently for the first year to establish roots.
- Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Plant the crown of the plant slightly above soil level to promote excellent drainage and prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide good air circulation to minimize disease risk.
- Water deeply but infrequently once established.
- Prune with sharp, clean tools to avoid tearing stems.
- Test soil pH; boxwoods prefer neutral to slightly alkaline conditions.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soil.
- Avoid piling mulch against the stems, which can cause rot.
- Don't allow plants to dry out completely, especially in winter.
- Avoid excessive fertilization, which can damage roots.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Littleleaf Boxwood questions
What zones can Littleleaf Boxwood grow in?
Littleleaf Boxwood is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Littleleaf Boxwood deer resistant?
Yes — Littleleaf Boxwood is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Littleleaf Boxwood bloom?
Littleleaf Boxwood typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Littleleaf Boxwood need full sun?
Littleleaf Boxwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Littleleaf Boxwood drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Littleleaf Boxwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Buxus to compare
Green Velvet Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Green Velvet'
Green Mountain Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Green Mountain'
Boxwood Sprinter
Buxus x hybrida 'Sprinter'
Common Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens
Dwarf English Boxwood
Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa'
Wintergreen Boxwood
Buxus microphylla 'Wintergreen'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Littleleaf Boxwood with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
