Overview
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' is a bushy conifers in the genus Cryptomeria, part of the Cupressaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, architectural and low maintenance.
About
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' is a bushy evergreen conifer cultivar within the Cryptomeria genus, known for substantial trees with reddish-brown bark and thick, awl-shaped leaves spiralling around the branchlets. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers a sheltered position with fertile, moist but well-drained soil, including chalk, clay, loam, or sand types across a range of pH levels. Suitable for cottage and informal gardens as well as architectural uses, it is hardy in the UK (H6) and offers seasonal interest in spring and summer.
About the genus
Cryptomeria is a monotypic genus of conifer in the cypress family Cupressaceae. It includes only one species, Cryptomeria japonica. It is considered to be endemic to Japan, where it is known as Sugi .
Wikipedia contributors, "Cryptomeria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cryptomeria
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 'Elegantissima' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Architectural, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima'
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to phytophthora root rot and honey fungus (rarely)
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima'?
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' need?
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' 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.
Is Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' hardy in the UK?
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegantissima'?
Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings.
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