Japanese boxwood, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is native to certain mountainous areas in Japan, primarily on the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu. In comparison to other species of boxwood, it is a relatively fast-growing shrub (to 12" per year) that typically matures over time in a loose upright form to 6-8' tall with a spread to as much as 10' wide. Glossy rounded leaves to 1" long are variable in shape . leaves will begin to turn orange-red-bronze after first fall frost, but they quickly return to green in spring.