tree

Densa Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Densa'

Same species

Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

32 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Densa' is an evergreen conifer with dense, compact growth, featuring soft, feathery foliage that forms attractive, scale-like sprays in a rich green hue. This cultivar is distinguished by its dense, slow-growing habit and its suitability for low-maintenance, formal landscapes, making it an excellent choice for topiary and small garden spaces.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery and structure in gardens.
Practical UsesActs as windbreaks and privacy screens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with dense foliage.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
  3. Mist foliage during dry periods for humidity.
  4. Place in partial shade for best color.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture.
  6. Prune lightly in early spring for shape.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry spells 🌱
  • Mulch annually to conserve moisture
  • Prune lightly for shape in early spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don’t place in full sun if poorly drained
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with dense, dark foliageStructural specimen in shrub borders

Companion Plants

Hosta Azalea Japanese Maple Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Densa Hinoki Cypress questions

What zones can Densa Hinoki Cypress grow in?

Densa 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 Densa Hinoki Cypress deer resistant?

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

When does Densa Hinoki Cypress bloom?

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

Does Densa Hinoki Cypress need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Densa Hinoki Cypress with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.