Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

32 other cultivars

shrub

Hinoki Cypress Breviramea

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Breviramea'

Same species

Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

32 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

180 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Low toxicity; can cause minor skin irritation or stomach upset if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Breviramea' is a compact, evergreen conifer with dense, scale-like foliage forming a rounded, bushy habit. Its soft green to bluish-green leaves create a textured, ornamental appearance year-round. This cultivar is distinguished by its short, spreading branches ('Breviramea' means short-branched) and dense, rich green foliage. It forms a slow-growing, broadly conical to pyramidal shape, making it an excellent specimen for smaller landscapes and rock gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with fine-textured foliage, enhancing landscape elegance.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Serves as habitat for birds and beneficial insects.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around roots to prevent rot
Plant in partial shade for best foliage color
Water regularly during the first year, then reduce
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune lightly in early spring to shape
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent weak growth

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining soil and avoid harsh afternoon sun for optimal health

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune lightly to maintain shape
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Never plant in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with fine textureShady border with architectural interest

Companion Plants

Japanese maple Hostas Ferns Azaleas Hydrangeas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hinoki Cypress Breviramea questions

What zones can Hinoki Cypress Breviramea grow in?

Hinoki Cypress Breviramea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hinoki Cypress Breviramea deer resistant?

Yes — Hinoki Cypress Breviramea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hinoki Cypress Breviramea bloom?

Hinoki Cypress Breviramea typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hinoki Cypress Breviramea need full sun?

Hinoki Cypress Breviramea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.