Japanese Box (Buxus harlandii)

Family: Buxaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Buxus harlandii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Mountains, C. and S. Japan. Streamsides or forest in the offshore islands of Guangdong, Hainan in China. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)