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Plant Profiles / Hinoki cypress

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

OutdoorTreeCompactPet friendly

Hinoki cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' · Dwarf Hinoki cypress

A slow-growing dwarf conifer with dense, shell-like sprays of dark green foliage. Adds structure and a Japanese-garden feel to pots and small spaces.

Sun to part shadeLight

WeeklyWater

ModerateCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Sun to part shade

ShadeFull sun

Morning sun and afternoon shade in hot areas.

Water

Weekly

DryWet

Keep evenly moist.

Humidity

Average

LowHigh

Shelter from drying wind.

Temperature

-25–32°C (-13–90°F)

CoolWarm

Prefers cooler climates.

Growth

Very slow, pyramidal

SlowFast

Grows 1–2 m over many years.

Soil

Moist, well-drained, acidic

LeanRich

Azalea mix in pots.

Fertiliser

Spring

RarelyOften

Light feed.

Pet safety

Non-toxic

SafeToxic

Considered non-toxic.

About this plant

Hinoki cypress is sacred in Japan, where its wood is used for temples. 'Nana Gracilis' grows only a few centimetres a year into a pyramidal shape, ideal for bonsai-style pots.

Best spots

Japanese-style gardens, balcony pots, rockeries and entryways.

Plant facts

Botanical name	Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis'
Family	Cupressaceae
Origin	Japan
Plant type	Evergreen conifer
Mature size	1–2 m
Growth rate	Very slow
Foliage	Shell-like dark green sprays
Flowers	None (conifer)
Toxicity	Non-toxic to pets
Propagation	Cuttings