Chamaecyparis pisifera 'GOLDEN MOP' Sawara cypress
Chamaecyparis
The genus Chamaecyparis comprises a small group of coniferous trees native exclusively to eastern Asia and the western regions of North America. Botanically, it belongs to the cypress family and is characterised by its fine branch structure, scale‑like foliage and remarkable diversity of forms and colours, which has made it one of the most important genera of ornamental conifers. The genus was first formally described by Stephan Ladislaus Endlicher (1804–1849) in the first half of the nineteenth century, at a time when Europe was becoming increasingly familiar with the flora of the Far East. Fossil evidence suggests that the ancestors of modern false cypresses were once far more widely distributed, making the genus another example of woody plants that survived major climatic shifts in restricted refuges.
The Sawara cypress is native to Japan, where it grows mainly in mountainous regions of the islands of Honshu and Kyushu at elevations of approximately 400 to 1800 metres. Its specific epithet refers to the small, pea‑like cones it produces. The species was first scientifically described by Carl Peter Thunberg (1743–1828), one of Carl Linnaeus’s most prominent students, who reached Japan during a period of near total isolation from the outside world. In its homeland, the tree has long been traditionally used; its wood is valued for its lightness, durability and fine texture and has been employed in the construction of temples, shrines and traditional bathhouses. When crushed, the branchlets release a pleasant resinous scent. The tree is regarded as a symbol of calm and balance and is often planted near sacred sites; in Central Europe it is also commonly found in cemeteries. Unlike many other false cypresses, Chamaecyparis pisifera is exceptionally variable, which has led to the selection of numerous garden forms differing in habit and colour.
Imagine giving such a beautiful little cypress a name like Golden Mop. It sounds almost as awkward as receiving a Golden Raspberry – a “golden” award that leaves you wondering whether it is meant as praise or mockery. The English approach here was clearly practical rather than poetic: it looks like a mop with golden tassels, so Golden Mop it became. In reality, however, the name is somewhat unkind to the true character of the plant. Though in the garden, Golden Mop does not appear coarse or untidy at all, but instead soft and refined, acting as a gentle golden accent that works with light and texture far more subtly than its name would suggest. The shrub forms a low, irregularly rounded to slightly domed habit and grows slowly, retaining a compact shape for many years. The branchlets are thin, thread‑like and freely pendulous, typical of the Filifera group, creating the impression of a fine, softly tousled tuft. The colour is a clear golden yellow to yellow‑green and given sufficient light, remains surprisingly stable even through winter.
Golden Mop originated as a colour mutation within the Filifera group, specifically as a sport of the cultivar Filifera Aurea. Unlike many older forms of Sawara cypress, its origin is relatively well documented. It was introduced into cultivation in the United Kingdom in the second half of the 20th century, most likely during the 1960s, at a time when European nurseries were actively selecting stable, slow‑growing coloured forms suitable for smaller gardens. Golden Mop was chosen for its finer texture, clearer and more consistent golden colouring, and more compact growth compared with earlier filifera aurea forms. In horticultural literature it also appears under the synonym Filifera Nana Aurea, which helps explain why very similar plants are sometimes encountered under different names. The simple and memorable name Golden Mop, however, undoubtedly contributed to its wider distribution and lasting popularity.
In the garden, Golden Mop works as a reliable, low‑growing feature that brings light into planting schemes throughout the year. It is well suited to paths, terrace edges, gravel gardens and rockeries, as well as to smaller gardens where there is no space for strongly growing woody plants. In mineral mulch it appears clean and contemporary, while in bark mulch it takes on a softer, more natural character. It combines particularly well with dark green conifers, compact evergreen shrubs and perennials with large leaves, which emphasise its fine texture. Thanks to its slow growth and naturally compact habit, it requires no pruning and remains effective for many years without the need for intervention.
Cultivation of sawara cypress is straightforward provided its basic requirements are met. It prefers acidic to neutral, humus‑rich and well‑drained soil with a constant supply of moisture, particularly during the first years after planting. Although it naturally occurs in alluvial soils with ample water, these sites never experience prolonged waterlogging, as excess water drains freely through permeable substrates. The plant does not tolerate drying out of the root ball. It thrives best in a sunny position, where its colouring remains most intense, but it will also tolerate light shade. Exposed, windy sites are unsuitable, not because of desiccation, but due to mechanical stress that can distort the fine, pendulous branches. Pruning is unnecessary and is carried out only rarely. Hardiness is excellent, withstanding temperatures down to around −34 °C (USDA zone 4) without damage.
Last update 15-02-2012; 25-02-2026
.jpg)
