Overview
Cryptomeria japonica is a bushy conifers in the genus Cryptomeria, part of the Cupressaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around Higher than 12 metres tall and 4-8 metres wide, reaching full size in around 20-50 years. Cryptomeria japonica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and architectural. It is native to China.
About
Cryptomeria japonica is a robust evergreen conifer that develops into a sizable tree with a conical form and notable fibrous red-brown bark. Its leaves are short and awl-shaped, arranged in a spiral pattern. The cones, measuring around 2 cm, are initially green and mature to a brown hue.
About the genus
Cryptomeria are substantial evergreen trees characterized by their reddish-brown bark and thick foliage made up of short, awl-shaped leaves that spiral around the branchlets. The cones produced by these trees are round in shape.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cryptomeria
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Cryptomeria japonica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers, Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Architectural
- Native to
- China
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cryptomeria japonica
- Cultivation
- Grows in any moist but well-drained soil. Requires sheltered position
- Pruning
- No pruning required but is one of few conifers that is suitable for coppicing
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to phytophthora root rot and honey fungus (rarely)
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cryptomeria japonica?
Grows in any moist but well-drained soil. Requires sheltered position.
Where is the best place to plant Cryptomeria japonica?
Cryptomeria japonica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cryptomeria japonica need?
Cryptomeria japonica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Cryptomeria japonica?
No pruning required but is one of few conifers that is suitable for coppicing.
How big does Cryptomeria japonica grow?
Cryptomeria japonica reaches a height of Higher than 12 metres and a spread of 4-8 metres. It takes around 20-50 years to reach full size.
Is Cryptomeria japonica hardy in the UK?
Cryptomeria japonica has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Cryptomeria japonica?
Propagate by seed in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.