Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), or hinoki falsecypress, adds interesting texture to the garden all year with its flat sprays of evergreen foliage. The species, native to Japan, is represented in gardens by many cultivars covering a range of sizes, growth habits and colors. Golden cultivars are especially eye-catching thanks to their bright yellow or chartreuse hue, but they need some extra consideration at planting time.
Like other hinoki cypresses, the golden varieties bear flat, evergreen leaves held in a fanlike arrangement. Favorite selections in this color include:
‘Butterball’—2 feet tall and wide, with a rounded habit
‘Crippsii’—10 feet tall, 4 feet wide, with a wide pyramidal habit
‘Nana Lutea’—5 feet tall, 3 feet wide, with an upright rounded to pyramidal habit
‘Fernspray Gold’—6 feet tall, 4 feet wide, with a narrow pyramidal habit
How to grow gold hinoki cypresses: Gold hinoki cypress generally shares the same requirements as the species and its many variations, although some extra consideration should be given to the sunlight conditions. In general, hinoki cypresses take full sun or part shade. However, gold-hued cultivars will develop their brightest foliage in full sun. That said, the very strong midday sun of the southern United States can scorch the foliage. Consider giving gold hinoki cypress some afternoon shade in the southern reaches of its growing zone, USDA Zones 4 through 8.
Hinoki cypress prefers fertile, well-drained soils that do not dry out. Provide even moisture; supplemental watering may be needed in times of drought. Make sure the plant is well hydrated through fall in preparation for winter, and avoid siting it where it will receive harsh winter winds.
Related: Because of their tolerance for part shade, hinoki cypress can make good companions for hellebores, providing a beautiful backdrop for these winter flowers. Find more hellebore companions here.
Image credits: 'Butterball' by Megan Hansen/CC BY-SA 2.0; 'Nana Lutea' detail by Megan Hansen/CC BY-SA 2.0
