Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Chamaecyparis pisifera or Sawara cypress

The genus Chamaecyparis, Cupresaceae family, comprises 6 species of trees native to Japan, America and Taiwan. Some species are: Chamaecyparis pisifera, Chamaecyparis obtusa, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Chamaecyparis formosensis, Chamaecyparis nootkatensis, Chamaecyparis thyoides.

Common names: Sawara cypress, Japanese False-cypress, Sawara False-cypress. This species is native to Japan.

Chamaecyparis pisifera is an evergreen tree with a conical and compact shape and slightly arched branches that reaches 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The needle-like leaves are silver-blue and become scaly with age. The flowers and fruits are not of decorative interest.

Sawara cypress is used as an isolated specimen, in parks and public gardens and in pots when young. It is recommended for bonsai. It is not a plant suitable for cultivation on the seafront.

Chamaecyparis pisifera grows in full sun (temperate climates) and semi-shade (warm climates) exposures. It resists frost well.

The soil can be normal garden soil with 20% coarse sand and 20% organic matter. Repot from the pot every 3 years but keep in mind that it does not like transplanting.

Water regularly so that the substrate never dries out completely (never flood). It does not resist prolonged drought.

Fertilize with organic matter in autumn and with mineral fertilizer once a month during spring and summer.

Japanese False-cypress tolerates a light pruning at the end of winter to maintain a compact shape.

This plant does not usually present serious problems with pests and diseases.

Sawara cypress is propagated from seeds sown in spring or autumn and by cuttings.

Images of the tree Chamaecyparis pisifera or Sawara cypress