In the genus Chamaecyparis are evergreen, coniferous trees with flattened sprays of scalelike adult leaves. Juvenile leaves are larger and ovate to linear. Female cones ripen in autumn and are spherical or angular, with two and occasionally three to five seeds on each scale. Male cones are spherical or ovoid and borne in spring.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsFrom Taiwan, Japan, and North America. Use as specimen trees and for hedging. A great number of cultivars exist, including dwarf and slow-growing varieties, some suitable for rock gardens or bonsai.
CareTolerates alkaline soil but thrives in moist, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil in full sun. Trim from late spring to early autumn. Do not cut into older wood.
PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings in late summer. Dwarf cultivars should be grafted in late winter or spring.
ProblemsSpruce mite, twig blight, root rot, needle blights
