Boxwood Troubles: Warts on Leaves Indicate Root Stress

If boxwood leaves lack the mottling of leafminer damage but the shrub is thinning, check the roots. Taft Eaker (UGA Extension) says most boxwood problems stem from root failure—either waterlogged (too much water) or suffocated (planted too deep).

Adventitious Roots on Leaves

Small warts on leaf undersides are actually adventitious roots—a physiological response to low light, high rainfall, or drought stress. They signal wet, compacted soil or deep planting where roots lack oxygen.

Better Species for the Southeast

Korean (Buxus sinica var. insularis) and Japanese (B. microphylla) boxwoods tolerate our climate better than English (B. sempervirens) or American types.