Chamaecyparis obtusa 'LYCOPODIOIDES' Hinoki cypress

The name of this Hinoki cypress is as bizarre as the plant itself. Still, its extraordinary appearance makes it look very unique given a good site in your garden. Lycopodioides is a slow growing conifer with contorted branches of mid green colour with blue-green shades. It is often compared to clubmoss. It does not have a shape as such so we suggest trimming the plant in young age to develop a dense structure of inner branches. Ultimate mature size is documented as 3-4m but garden cultivated, looked-after plants are probably just half of that.

Hinoki cypress likes medium fertile, acid to neutral, moist but well-drained soil. Grow it preferably in full sun or only a light shade so that the plant keeps its compact shape and bottom branches. Pruning or trimming can be done in early spring after all frosts. Mulching is recommended for keeping the soil moist. Fully hardy to -29°C (USDA zone 5), possibly a few degrees lower.

Last update 06-02-2013