Also known as False Cypress · 2.9k saves
Chamaecyparis
Chamaecyparis, the genus most gardeners know as false cypress. We track 67 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Chamaecyparis varieties
See all 67 Chamaecyparis varieties →Search this genus →
4 species of Chamaecyparis
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Chamaecyparis in Sow
Save the Chamaecyparis you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Chamaecyparis
Whats common across all Chamaecyparis varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Chamaecyparis year
- PruneFebruary and March95% of varieties
Lightly prune in late winter to shape. Immediately remove any green reversion.
- FertilizeMarch90% of varieties
Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring.
- MulchMarch, April and October75% of varieties
Maintain 2-3 inches of mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October40% of varieties
Plant in spring or early fall in well-drained soil.
- Check for PestsMay–July38% of varieties
Monitor for spider mites and bagworms, especially in hot, dry weather.
Do
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Chamaecyparis
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted new growth | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Scale insects | Bumps on stems and branches | Apply horticultural oil during dormant season |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing on needles | Use neem oil spray |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Increase humidity and apply miticides |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing needles | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root Rot | Wilting despite watering, brown roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Cedar leaf blight | Brown or black spots on foliage | Prune affected areas and apply fungicide |
Making more Chamaecyparis
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil mix
- Keep soil consistently moist for 6 weeks
Seeds
- Collect seeds in fall from mature cones
- Sow on surface of moist seed-starting mix
- Keep in warm, bright location
- Germination occurs in 4-8 weeks
Chamaecyparis questions
How many types of Chamaecyparis are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 67 distinct Chamaecyparis varieties. The most popular — ranked by 2.9k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Chamaecyparis grow in?
Across its varieties, Chamaecyparis covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Chamaecyparis bloom?
Most Chamaecyparis varieties bloom in early spring, late spring, spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Chamaecyparis should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.