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common box
Scientific Name: Buxus sempervirens
Family: Buxaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Common Box (Buxus sempervirens)
The Common Box, scientifically known as Buxus sempervirens, is a popular evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its dense habit and versatility in gardens.
Considerations for Pets
- All parts of the plant are considered poisonous.
Considerations for Children
- All parts of the plant are considered poisonous.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Buxus sempervirens
- Common Names: Common box, European box, boxwood
- Family: Buxaceae
Description
- Common box is a vigorous, evergreen, bushy, upright shrub or small tree.
- It has small, rounded to oblong, glossy dark green leaves.
- Mature common box can grow to 6m and have smooth, grey bark.
- Stems are green and downy.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to western and southern Europe.
- Native to Southern Britain, especially on chalk or limestone.
Cultivation
- Grows best in well-drained soil in partial shade.
- Often used for formal hedges in partially shady sites.
- Rooted plants should be planted 9-12 inches apart to create a dense hedge.
Traditional Uses
- Historically, it was believed to keep witches from entering the house.
- The Common Box was the most important plant used for topiary hedges or living sculptures in the baroque period.
- Used for homeopathic preparations in French Pharmacopoeia 2005.