Buxus species / Box Species Guide
The two Buxus species that are commonly seen as Bonsai are Buxus microphylla/ Japanese Box and Buxus sempervirens/ Common Box. These species are very similar, carrying elliptic, glossy, dark-green leaves to 2-3cm long.
Box are slow growing and take a long time to establish a thick trunk.
Ease of Cultivation 7/10 Suitablity for Bonsai Styling 7/10
Position Sun or light shade. Excessive sunlight can result in sun-scorched leaves. Both species are hardy to -4°C but frosts and cold winds can discolour top growth. Give additional protection to trees when temperatures drop below -5°C
Repotting Every 2 to 3 years in Spring as new leaf buds start to extend.
Pruning New growth needs to be continually trimmed to shape throughout the growing season.
Propagation Root semi-ripe cuttings in Summer. Division in early Spring. Air-layering in late-Spring.
Pests and Diseases Red spider mite can be a problem in hot weather.
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