Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

28 other cultivars

tree RHS Award

Slender Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Gracilis'

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa, or Hinoki Cypress, is a slow-growing evergreen conifer native to Japan, revered for its high-quality timber and graceful beauty. It features dark green, scale-like leaves arranged in flattened, fan-like sprays.

'Gracilis' is a popular cultivar known for its slender, upright, pyramidal form and graceful, arching branches with drooping tips. Its foliage is a rich, dark green, held in delicate, shell-like sprays, creating a refined and elegant texture.

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary value is its exceptionally elegant form and texture. The slender habit, arching branches, and dark green, fan-like foliage create a refined, architectural statement in the garden.

This slow-growing conifer is perfect as a vertical accent in tight spaces, a specimen in rock gardens or near entryways, and as a fine-textured foundation plant.

The dense evergreen branches provide important year-round shelter and cover for small birds and other wildlife.

SpeciesChamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180"

Width

72"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers some humidity

Lifespan

Very long-lived conifer

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Protect the location from strong, drying winds.
Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring it's straight.
Backfill with soil, firming gently.
Water thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch.

Pro Tip

Protect from harsh, drying winter winds and provide afternoon shade in hot southern climates to prevent foliage scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment.
Plant in slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
Protect from harsh winter sun and wind to prevent desiccation.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out completely, as it is not drought tolerant.
Do not plant in heavy, wet clay soil, which leads to root rot.
Avoid pruning, as it can easily spoil the beautiful natural form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant vertical accentGraceful specimen for small gardensTextural foundation planting

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'Hosta 'Sum and Substance'Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'Rhododendron Pieris japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Slender Hinoki Cypress questions

What zones can Slender Hinoki Cypress grow in?

Slender Hinoki Cypress 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 Slender Hinoki Cypress deer resistant?

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

Does Slender Hinoki Cypress need full sun?

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