Boxwood
Parts Usually Used
Bark, leaves
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Boxwood is a small, broadleafed, evergreen tree or shrub; may grow 3 to 4 feet high, it is heavily branched, with angular or winged, slightly hairy twigs. The leaves, 1-1 1/2 inches long, are opposite, leathery, simple, oval to oblong-lanceolate, dark green above and pale beneath. The pale yellow flowers grow in axillary clusters, and the fruit is a globular capsule containing 6 glossy black seeds.
Full sun, partial shade in warm climates. Zones 4-8. Other varieties: dwarf variety (B. suffruticosa); B. microphylla var. koreana, Green Gem, Kingsville Dwarf, Winter Beauty.
Where Found
Found along the Atlantic coast, especially as an ornamental and hedge plant, in dry hills and sandy soil in Europe. Native to southern Europe and Asia. Not strictly an herb, grown mostly for hedges.
Medicinal Properties
Diaphoretic, purgative
Uses
Historical sources traditionally described the plant as a purgative.
Warning
Animals have died from eating the leaves.
Bibliography
The Herb Book , by John Lust, Bantam Books, 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY. copyright 1974. , 15 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023