Buxus harlandii, commonly known as Harland boxwood, is a small, bushy, multi-stemmed broadleaf evergreen shrub with a rounded vase-shaped form. The common name “boxwood” pertains to the wood used to create ornamental boxes.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Buxus harlandii, the Harland boxwood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Buxaceae. It is native to coastal southeast China, from Hong Kong and other Guangdong islands down to Hainan, and to Vietnam. Care must be taken when purchasing, as many specimens labeled Buxus harlandii are actually Buxus microphylla.
Buxus harlandii is a small, bushy, multi-stemmed broadleaf evergreen shrub with a rounded vase-shaped form. It typically grows to 2-3’ (infrequently to 5’) tall and as wide. It is native to southern China where it is often found growing in open wooded areas and stream margins. Bright green leaves are oblongolate to ovate-oblong (to 1.25” long). Each leaf has an indentation at the leaf tip. Fragrant pale yellow flowers bloom in April–May. Staminate flowers are stalked but pistillate ones are sessile. Attractive white trunk accents.
II. How to Grow and Care
Harland boxwood is known for being quite resilient and easy to care for, making it suitable for a variety of gardeners. A key care point for harland boxwood is ensuring it receives partial to full sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Additionally, harland boxwood requires minimal pruning to shape as desired and maintain its dense foliage, making it especially appealing for decorative topiary or hedges.
Sunlight
Harland boxwood likes sufficient sunlight but can tolerate partial shade too. Thus, it can grow well both indoors and outdoors. You can plant it almost anywhere, except for spots that are completely in the shade all day long. If it doesn’t receive enough sunlight, the leaves may turn yellow. There are other species in the Buxus genus that prefer low light environments, which are best grown somewhere with partial shade that avoids direct blazing sunlight in the summer.
Temperature
Harland boxwood is mainly distributed in temperate regions and prefers a warmer climate. However, it is cold-resistant to a degree, too. Harland boxwood can grow at temperatures in the range of -23 to 35 ℃ but will become dormant and stop growing if the temperature goes outside of this range. If the temperature stays around 16 to 27 ℃, it will be vigorous and grow rapidly. It prefers moist soil but is also tolerant of dry conditions. However, it is not tolerant of waterlogging.
Watering
Originating from the subtropical regions, harland boxwood is accustomed to moderate humidity and can tolerate short periods of dryness. It thrives when its soil moisture is kept consistent, preferring a balance that avoids over-saturation. Accordingly, it benefits from watering once every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen plant commonly grown indoors due to its tolerance for lower light conditions, harland boxwood maintains its water needs consistently throughout the year, without significant seasonal variation.
Soil
Harland boxwood doesn’t require a specific soil type but does like the soil to be moist and fertile. It can even grow in dry and barren conditions. However, due to its intolerance of waterlogging, it is recommended to plant it in sandy soil with good drainage, rather than in clay soil.
Fertilizing
Harland boxwood produces small flowers, so it does not require much fertilizer. It should be given fertilizer two or three times during its vigorous growth stage, at the same time as you water it. Use fully decomposed organic fertilizer, but don’t add too much.
Planting Instructions
It is recommended to plant harland boxwood in the spring, so it has an opportunity to grow strong enough before winter comes. Also, the weather in spring is mild and warm, unlike in the summer when heat and drought could hinder its ability to adapt to a new environment. If you plant it in the garden, you should choose somewhere that receives 5-6 hours of sunlight each day, and soil that has good drainage. Water it immediately after planting. If the weather is very dry, you should continue to water it each day for three consecutive days.
If you plant harland boxwood in a pot, it is best to choose a pot big enough to allow ample space for its roots to grow. Clay pots are the best option as they have excellent ventilation and help the roots to breathe. When planting, you can trim off any old or dead roots; this will stimulate the growth of new roots. In general, harland boxwood should be re-potted every 2-3 years. It is advisable to do this before the budding of new leaves as their growth requires plentiful nutrition. You can also trim the roots when repotting, and replace the soil.
Pruning
Harland boxwood is very tolerant of pruning and tends to rapidly grow new twigs after it has been clipped. You can trim it into different looks depending on your needs. It is best to prune in the summer and winter. In summer, the plant is lush but the ventilation among the branches and leaves is not great, making it vulnerable to pests and diseases. In winter, it grows slowly and can maintain a certain ornamental look for longer. You can trim off any leaves that are old, dead, or have changed color, to make the plant look more presentable.
Pests and Diseases
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to blights and leaf spot. Root rot can also be a problem in poorly-drained soils. The three main insect pests of boxwoods are boxwood leafminer, boxwood mite and boxwood psyllid. In the deep South, nematodes are of concern. New growth is particularly susceptible to winter damage.
III. Uses and Benefits
Harland boxwood can be used as hedges, borders, or foundations. This plant is also a great candidate for bonsai.
