Chamaecyparis obtusa Nana Gracilis (Hinoki Cypress)

One of the most popular dwarf conifers, Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Nana Gracilis’ (Hinoki Cypress) is a slow-growing conifer forming a dense, globe-like, evergreen shrub when young, becoming more broadly conical over time. Its lush, glossy dark green foliage is held in short, shell-like sprays. The typical rate of growth is 3-6 in. (7–15 cm) per year. Introduced in 1867, this universally admired cultivar is perfect for sunny borders, rock gardens or containers where it adds year-round color and structure.

One of the most popular dwarf conifers, Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' (Hinoki Cypress) is a slow-growing conifer forming a dense, globe-like, evergreen shrub when young, becoming more broadly conical over time. Its lush, glossy dark green foliage is held in short, shell-like sprays. The typical rate of growth is 3-6 in. (7–15 cm) per year. The small female cones are green maturing to reddish brown. Introduced in 1867, this universally admired cultivar is perfect for sunny borders, rock gardens or containers where it adds year-round color and structure.

  • Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its noteworthy qualities
  • Grows up to 3-6 ft. tall (90-180 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-120 cm) after 10 years.
  • A full sun 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.
  • Perfect as a specimen plant, city gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens or for containers.
  • 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
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 3'
– 6'
(90cm
– 180cm)
Spread 2'
– 4'
(60cm
– 120cm)
Spacing 60″ (150cm)
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, Patio and Containers, Small Gardens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden