It performs reliably in cool to temperate climates in full sun to part shade with well-drained slightly acidic to neutral loamy soil. Buxus microphylla is more heat and humidity tolerant than Buxus sempervirens, which makes it a stronger choice for warm coastal Sydney, Brisbane and inland positions where English Box can struggle. Once established it is frost hardy, drought tolerant and holds its shape with two light clips per year.
Saucer forms are one of the most popular topiary shapes in contemporary landscape design. They work particularly well as horizontal punctuation in modern gardens, layered with taller topiary or grasses, in low mass plantings and as flat feature pieces in large courtyards. Buxus microphylla saucers give the timeless quality of clipped box in a strong horizontal form.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Buxus microphylla Saucer
What is Buxus microphylla?
Buxus microphylla is a distinct variety within the Buxus family, valued for having the smallest and finest leaves of any commonly grown box. It gives an exceptionally tight formal finish, is slower growing than japonica and more heat and humidity tolerant than sempervirens. It is one of the best choices for precise topiary work in warm coastal and inland Australian positions.
What form is the plant trained into?
Saucer form. Each plant is trained into a flat disc-shaped crown, wider than it is tall, sitting on a low base of foliage. The horizontal shape gives a strong contemporary line and is one of the most popular topiary forms in modern landscape design.
How big is the saucer?
The 50cm pot saucers are specimen-grade, with a saucer diameter of approximately 0.7 to 0.9 metres and a saucer thickness of approximately 0.25 to 0.35 metres. Each plant is well-rooted and in proportion to the pot, ready to place.
How is it different from Buxus sempervirens (English Box)?
Buxus microphylla has smaller and finer leaves than sempervirens, a tighter growth pattern, and better tolerance of heat and humidity. Sempervirens is the traditional choice for cool-temperate gardens and holds a slightly denser texture in Melbourne, Tasmania and the tablelands. Microphylla performs better in warm coastal Sydney and Brisbane where sempervirens can suffer from humidity and box blight.
Where does Buxus microphylla grow best?
Buxus microphylla performs reliably across most Australian climates from subtropical Queensland through to temperate Victoria and Tasmania. It thrives in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, coastal NSW and the tablelands. It prefers full sun to part shade with well-drained slightly acidic to neutral soil, and tolerates warmer humid positions where English Box would struggle.
Is it prone to box blight?
Buxus microphylla is less susceptible to box blight than Buxus sempervirens, particularly in humid conditions. To reduce risk further, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and prune to maintain airflow through the canopy. In high humidity areas, Buxus bodinieri Shaggy Box remains the most blight-resistant alternative.
How do I prune a Buxus saucer?
Lightly clip twice per year, in spring and again in late summer or early autumn. Use sharp shears for the cleanest formal finish, and step back regularly to check the flat plane and the symmetry of the disc edge. Focus each cut on maintaining the horizontal top and clean vertical sides. Avoid pruning in the heat of summer or during frost periods.
How do I care for Buxus microphylla Saucer?
Water deeply through the first growing season. Once established, reduce watering and supplement only during extended dry periods. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early spring and again in late summer. Mulch annually with an acidic mulch like pine bark, keeping the mulch clear of the trunk. In pots, use a quality potting mix and step the pot up in size every two to three years to support continued root health.
