African Boxwood

African Boxwood usually requires frequent deep waterings in drier climates. During the summer, the plant should be watered regularly and deeply to avoid wilt and yellowing of the foliage. In wetter climates, African Boxwood will require less water and should not be subject to standing water.

African Boxwood prefers full to partial sun. When grown in full shade, this plant tends to become leggy and has poor foliage density. In hot, dry climates, it may need some partial shade from the hot midday sun.

African Boxwood has a wide range of hardiness and can survive in USDA zones 5-9. In cooler climates, the plant will require protection with burlap or other similar materials. In hot climates, this plant should be planted in a location where it is protected from the midday sun for optimum growth and foliage quality.

African Boxwood prefers moderate to high levels of humidity. In lower humidity environments, this plant will require more frequent waterings and supplemental misting or the use of a humidifier. In high humidity areas, the foliage should be checked for fungal diseases.

African Boxwood prefers a light, fertile soil with good drainage. It can tolerate most soil pH levels but prefers soil that is slightly acidic. A well-draining soil mix with lots of organic matter works best for this plant.

African Boxwood will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer once per year. An all-purpose 10-10-10 fertilizer is usually recommended. During the summer months, a liquid fertilizer can also be used once per month for best results. Avoid using too much fertilizer as this can stress the plant.

African Boxwood is mostly pest free. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally be present. These bugs can be eliminated with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray. Additionally, borers, which cause decay, can also infest this plant and should be removed as quickly as possible.

African Boxwood should be repotted only when necessary. It prefers a well-draining soil mix with lots of organic matter. When repotting, use a larger pot and only move up one size at a time for best results. Carefully tease the roots out of the old pot and gently place into the new pot without disturbing the roots too much.

African Boxwood can be pruned to create an interesting shape or form. It should be trimmed back in the fall for best results and left unpruned for the rest of the year. Pruning should be done when the plant is actively growing and avoid pruning in the winter when the foliage is dormant.

Mulching around the base of African Boxwood helps to retain soil moisture and discourage weeds. An organic mulch such as pine needles, leaves, or grass clippings is best and should be applied in the early spring and again in the late fall for best results.

African Boxwood can be easily propagated by cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant in the summer and keep them slightly moist until they root. Rooting hormone is not needed but can help the Cuttings root sooner. Plant the rooted cuttings in well-draining, fertile soil for best results.

African Boxwood rarely needs any kind of support. It does, however, benefit from mulching around its base, especially in colder climates, to help insulate its roots and conserve moisture from the winter frost.

African Boxwood does not require a rest period as long as it is grown in optimal conditions. However, it is beneficial to keep the soil moist in the winter, as the plant can become stressed if its roots dry out completely.

African Boxwood is not known to be toxic to pets. However, it is still best to keep any animals away from this plant, as it can still possess a skin or eye irritant.