About

Cryptomeria japonica 'Bandai-sugi' is a slow-growing, medium-sized evergreen conifer that reaches heights of up to 2 meters. It features a somewhat irregular rounded shape and boasts dense foliage. The short, awl-like needles display a bronze hue during the winter months.

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

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Conifers
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows in any moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position
Pruning
No pruning required but is one of few conifers that is suitable for coppicing
Propagation
Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to phytophthora root rot and honey fungus (rarely)