Hinoki cypress 'Nana Gracilis'

Synonyms: hinoki cypress, hinoki falsecypress

Hinoki cypress «Nana Gracilis» – a dwarf evergreen shrub native to Japan, where it grows together with Chamaecyparis pisifera.

The crown is rounded or conical, becoming broadly conical with age. Shoots are twisted in a shell-like shape. It grows very slowly, gaining 0.5 m in 10 years. Annual growth is 5 cm in height and 3 cm in width. A mature shrub reaches 2.44 m (3 m) in height and 1.83 m (2 m) in width. Branches are densely arranged, horizontal, and droop at the tips. Bark is reddish-brown.

Foliage is scaly, dark green, glossy, closely appressed, and very ornamental.

The root system is strong, densely branched, and shallow-rooted.

Hardiness zone: 5-8. Young plants need protection during cold winters.

Position: the plant prefers light but can tolerate light partial shade. Prefers fresh, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils, from acidic to slightly alkaline. Drought-tolerant.

Pruning: only rejuvenation pruning is applied.

Pests and diseases: little affected by pests and diseases. Among pests – bagworm. Diseases – root rot.

Uses: looks excellent in groups and as single specimens. Used for decorating rock gardens, rockeries, and Japanese gardens. Can be grown in containers.