Overview:
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis, also known as Benguela boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It is an endemic plant of Angola, specifically found in the Benguela province on the southwest coast of the country.
Common Names:
Benguela Boxwood, Umhambi
Appearance:
Benguela Boxwood is a small, rounded shrub that typically grows up to 1-2 meters tall. Its branches are slender, and the bark is smooth and brown. The leaves are small, glossy, and leathery, measuring 10-25mm long and 3-15mm wide. The plant's flowers are pale green and inconspicuous, and it produces small, round fruit that is about 8-10mm in diameter, which contains a few seeds.
Uses:
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis is widely used as a hedge plant, topiary, and bonsai. It is favored for its dense foliage and compact growth. It is also valued for its hardwood, which is hard and heavy, and used for carving and making wood products.
Growth Conditions for Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis
Light: Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis grows best in partial to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorch, so it's important to provide some protection or shading during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature: This plant is native to the cooler regions of southern Africa, so it prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) and as high as 30°C (86°F). However, it's important to protect the plant from extreme heat or frost, as these conditions can be damaging.
Soil: Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay, as long as the soil is well-draining. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-aged manure, can help improve soil texture and fertility.
Water: This plant prefers moist, but not waterlogged, soil. It's important to water regularly during the growing season, particularly during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. During the winter months, it's important to reduce watering to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilizer: Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 15-15-15 blend, can help promote healthy growth and development. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and application timing.
Pruning: Regular pruning can help maintain the shape and size of the plant, as well as promote healthy growth. It's important to prune after the plant has finished flowering, as this will encourage new growth. Avoid pruning during the winter months, as this can damage the plant.
Cultivation
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis, also known as Angola boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that is native to Angola and Namibia. It is best grown in areas with mild winter temperatures and well-draining soil.
The ideal location for planting this shrub is in full or partial shade, where it can thrive in moist, well-draining soil. Make sure to test the soil pH level, which should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
You can propagate Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis through seeds or stem cuttings in the warmer months. Transplanting is best done during spring or autumn.
Watering Needs
This shrub needs regular watering for survival, especially during the first few years of growth. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Inadequate watering can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves.
Continuously monitor the soil moisture levels since Buxus Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis is sensitive to drought. Drying out can cause leaf fall or death of the plant.
Fertilization
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis requires regular fertilization to promote healthy and robust growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer at least twice a year, preferably during the growing season. Excess fertilizer can cause salt buildup, leading to root damage and burning of the leaves.
Pruning
To ensure proper plant growth, it is advisable to prune Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis regularly. It is best to prune this shrub during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new leaves.
Trimming the leaves can help to improve airflow and prevent fungal diseases. Additionally, regular pruning can help to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis, commonly known as Benguela Boxwood, is a shrub species in the family Buacaceae. Given its unique characteristics, it can be propagated through different methods, including seed propagation, cuttings propagation, and layering propagation.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is a simple method that involves collecting ripe seeds from the parent plant, sowing them in a propagation bed, and then transplanting the seedlings to a permanent location. However, seed propagation may not guarantee the retention of the parent plant's desirable characteristics and growth habits.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings propagation is the most common method used to propagate Buxus benguellensis. Stem cuttings of approximately 10-20 cm in length are taken from the parent plant and placed in a suitable rooting medium, such as a mix of peat moss and sand. The cuttings should be kept moist, and rooting hormone powder may be applied to encourage root development. After rooting, the young plants can be transplanted into a larger container before being transferred to their permanent location.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering involves bending a low-growing branch or stem downwards and burying it beneath the soil surface while still attached to the parent plant. Once the buried section of the branch or stem develops sufficient roots, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a permanent location.
Disease Management
Buxus benguellensis Gilg var. benguellensis is a sturdy plant that is not highly susceptible to diseases. However, if left untreated, some diseases may have devastating effects. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Boxwood Blight
Boxwood blight is a fungal disease that thrives in warm, wet conditions. It causes leaf spots, defoliation, and stem cankers. To manage boxwood blight, remove infected plants and debris and sanitize pruning tools. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to keep the soil dry. Fungicides may help in severe cases.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by a water mold. It attacks the roots and causes yellowing, stunted growth, and wilting. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid overwatering, improve drainage, and plant the B. benguellensis in well-draining soil. Fungicides may help in severe cases.
Pest Management
B. benguellensis is also relatively pest-resistant, but some insects and mites may occasionally attack the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Boxwood Psyllid
Boxwood psyllid is a tiny insect that sucks sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and cupping of the leaves. To manage boxwood psyllid, prune infested leaves and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil in severe cases. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Boxwood Leafminer
Boxwood leafminer is a small fly that lays eggs in the leaves. The larvae tunnel inside the leaves, causing yellowing and blisters. To manage boxwood leafminer, prune infested leaves and encourage natural predators such as parasitic wasps. Use insecticides such as spinosad or neem oil in severe cases.
