Xylosma japonica
Xylosma japonica
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Pl. 49F4 — Xylosma japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Xylosma japonica, commonly known as Japanese boxwood, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to China and Japan, including regions such as Korea, Taiwan, and the Nansei-shoto islands. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay soils, making it adaptable to different environments. It is known for its edible leaves and shoots, which are often used in traditional cuisine. Xylosma japonica can grow up to 25 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-10, thriving in dry to moist conditions. Its light green foliage provides a distinctive appearance, making it an ornamental choice for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Xylosma japonica?
Xylosma japonica, commonly known as Japanese boxwood, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to China and Japan, including regions such as Korea, Taiwan, and the Nansei-shoto islands.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Xylosma japonica thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist but well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 25 meters tall. Propagate via cuttings of leaves and shoots. Ensure the plant receives adequate water, especially when the soil is dry, for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Xylosma japonica for the first time
8steps
Start with Xylosma japonica as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Xylosma japonica saplings or seeds, gardening gloves, spade, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is moist and warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light to partial shade. Ensure the soil is rich but not overly heavy.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground or start seeds in small pots before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light to partial shade, water when dry, and prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting pruning, not providing enough light.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Xylosma japonica are edible. They can be prepared fresh or dried for use in various culinary applications. Skip
Other uses:Hedgerow
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native· 1 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
introduced:Florida
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 49f42ee5-dec3-40de-8104-283df0a3c573
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