Japanese Boxthorn, Snow Rose
serissa japonica
Also known as: ["Japanese Boxthorn","Snow Rose"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub with fine, dark green foliage and small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom intermittently throughout the year.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Serissa |
| Botanical Name: | Serissa japonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter; cactus or bonsai soil works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning which can cause excessive leaf drop.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the soil dry out completely; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during spring and summer, monthly in fall, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; softwood cuttings root more easily than hardwood.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth indicates establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting phase.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim leggy growth, and shape the canopy; use clean cuts just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; helps refresh soil and prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use organic compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or browning of leaves; stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use humidity trays to maintain moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Serissa japonica. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Serissa japonica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSerissa japonica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Serissa japonica be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Serissa japonica require pruning?
A: Yes, light pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Serissa japonica turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or stress from sudden changes in light or temperature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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