Balearic box (Buxus balearica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Balearic box on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Buxaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Balearic box
Buxus balearica, also known as Balearic Boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is characterized by its small, oval, glossy dark green leaves, which give it a dense and elegant texture. It is ideal for creating low hedges, borders, or topiary in formal and Mediterranean-style gardens.
Native range
Balearic Islands and North Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure, tolerating partial shade well, although it will flower less. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings; it is susceptible to waterlogging, especially in pots. Use a well-drained, slightly alkaline or neutral substrate. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Balearic box
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, excessive leaf drop, dry or withered branches.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, water moderately if soil is dry, check drainage.
- What kills it
- Excessive, prolonged direct sun, constant waterlogging, or total lack of water in summer.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Look for new shoots after care.