About

Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans Aurea' is a gradually growing conifer that develops into a sizable shrub or a small tree, reaching heights of up to 10 meters. The bark is a warm cinnamon hue, while the young foliage is feathery and vibrant green, transitioning to a yellow-green shade 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
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows in any moist but well-drained soil. Requires a sheltered position
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to phytophthora root rot and honey fungus (rarely)