Questions and Answers for FLOWERWOOD 2.5 Qt. Japanese Boxwood (Buxus) Shrub, Live Evergreen Hedge Plant with Green Deer-Resistant Foliage

A:  Japanese Boxwood (Buxus microphylla) is considered unsafe for pets, including cats and dogs, if ingested in large quantities. The plant contains alkaloids and glycosides, particularly in its leaves, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, potentially more serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing or cardiac issues. While Japanese Boxwood is not typically considered highly toxic to pets, it's best to prevent pets from nibbling on the plant to avoid any potential adverse reactions. If you suspect your pet has ingested Japanese Boxwood or any other potentially toxic plant, it's essential to seek veterinary care promptly for proper evaluation and treatment.

A:  Japanese Boxwood is a compact and slow-growing evergreen shrub that typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 feet. Its small and dense foliage, along with its ability to tolerate pruning, makes it a popular choice for hedges, borders, and ornamental landscaping in smaller spaces.

A:  I am not sure on the official planting date. I planted mine last March in Central Texas area. I can tell you that it is turning a bit white with the overnight frosts and freezes even with me covering it up.

A:  The age of a Japanese boxwood shrub in a 2.5-quart pot can vary, but typically, it is around 1 to 2 years old.

A:  Japanese boxwoods (Buxus microphylla) are generally not known for having a cat urine smell like some English boxwood varieties (Buxus sempervirens). However, individual perceptions of plant odors can vary, and some people might detect different scents or find that environmental factors influence the aroma. In general, Japanese boxwoods are preferred in landscapes because they are less likely to emit unpleasant odors compared to some English boxwood types.

A:  No, the leaves of the Japanese Boxwood do not have thorns. They have smooth, oval-shaped leaves that are typically dark green and glossy. Japanese Boxwood is a popular choice for hedging and ornamental landscaping due to its neat and non-thorny foliage.

A:  The number of Japanese boxwood plants you'll need to create a border along a 60-foot chain-link fence depends on several factors, including the desired spacing between plants. For a traditional spacing of 2 to 3 feet apart, you would require approximately 25 to 30 Japanese boxwoods to create a consistent border.

A:  When planting Japanese Boxwood shrubs, spacing is determined by the desired hedge or visual effect. Typically, these shrubs are planted 2 to 3 feet apart for a dense hedge, but they can be spaced further apart, up to 5 feet, for a more open arrangement. The key is to consider the mature size of the plants and plan accordingly. Japanese Boxwood is a slow-growing shrub, and the time it takes to mature can vary. In general, you can expect it to take several years, often around 5 to 15 years, for the shrub to reach its full mature size. Factors such as soil quality, sunlight, and care practices can influence the growth rate. Regular pruning, especially in the early years, can help shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Patience is key, as the Japanese Boxwood rewards with a compact and attractive form once it reaches maturity.