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About this plant
False cypress Chamaecyparis
False cypresses (Chamaecyparis) are evergreen conifers from the cool, moist forests of North America and East Asia, belonging to the cypress family. They carry flattened sprays of small, aromatic scale leaves and tiny round cones. Countless garden forms exist, from dwarf buns to tall columns, in green, blue, grey and golden tones.
Hinoki cypress Chamaecyparis obtusa
Hinoki cypress is native to Japan, where its fine-grained, fragrant wood is prized for temples and furniture. It has rounded sprays of bright, glossy dark green foliage with a cedar-like scent and reddish-brown bark that peels in strips. In gardens it is mainly grown in its many compact and dwarf forms.
Location and soil
Sun or partial shade, sheltered from strong wind. Plant in neutral to acidic soil that stays moist in summer but drains well in winter: enrich sandy soil with compost and add lime-free gravel to heavy soil. Avoid poorly drained sites. Very hardy.
Pruning and care
Pruning is rarely needed. Keep the soil from drying out, especially during hot, dry spells and in containers, where a slightly acidic potting mix works best. A mulch layer keeps the roots cool.
Use in the garden
Compact forms are popular as accent plants in Japanese-style and rock gardens, in foundation plantings and in pots on a terrace or balcony; taller forms can be used for hedges and screens.
Plant characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Chamaecyparis |
| Species | obtusa |
| Cultivar | 'Butterball' |
Foliage
| Evergreen | yes |
| Colour (foliage) | green, yellow |
Growth habit
| Height | 50 cm |
Location
| Winter hardiness | -20 °C |
| Soil type | neutral |
| Location | sun |
| Soil moisture | normal |
Use
| Type (use) | conifer |
Care
| Pruning | august |
