Chamaecyparis obtusa Fernspray Gold (Hinoki Cypress)

Quite showy, Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Fernspray Gold’ (Hinoki Cypress) is a medium-sized, upright, evergreen shrub with a gracefully irregular, pyramidal habit. The arching to horizontal branches are densely clothed in flat sprays of fern-like foliage. Golden-yellow in full sun, the foliage becomes greener towards the interior of the plant. The typical growth rate is 6-8 in. per year (15-20 cm). A pleasure to look at year-round, this attractive Hinoki Cypress is perfect for sunny borders or rock gardens.

Quite showy, Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Fernspray Gold' (Hinoki Cypress) is a medium-sized, upright, evergreen shrub with a gracefully irregular, pyramidal habit. The arching to horizontal branches are densely clothed in flat sprays of fern-like foliage. Golden-yellow in full sun, the foliage becomes greener towards the interior of the plant. The typical growth rate is 6-8 in. per year (15-20 cm). A pleasure to look at year-round, this attractive Hinoki Cypress is perfect for sunny borders or rock gardens.

  • Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities
  • Grows up to 6 ft. tall (180 cm) and 3 ft. wide (90 cm) after 10 years.
  • A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerant of chalk soils but prefers slightly acidic soil. Protect from strong winds. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
  • Perfect as a specimen plant, city gardens, cottage gardens, or rock gardens.
  • Low maintenance, no pruning required.
  • May be affected by honey fungus and Phytophthora root diseases. Watch for aphids
  • Propagate by grafting and semi-hardwood cuttings
  • Native to Japan

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 8

Heat Zones 1
– 8

Climate Zones 2, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 15, 16, 17, A3
Plant Type Conifers, Shrubs
Plant Family Chamaecyparis – False Cypress
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 5'
– 6'
(150cm
– 180cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 48″ (120cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Small Gardens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden