Species

Cryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

19 other cultivars

tree

Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria

Cryptomeria japonica 'Avid's Dragon'

The Story

Plant Bio

Evergreen conifer with dense foliage

Drought tolerant once established, ornamental bark

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery and structure, enhancing landscape aesthetics.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering after initial years.

Supports local bird populations with dense foliage shelter.

SpeciesCryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

150 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late fall

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-drained, acidic soil for planting.
Tuck young plants into a partially shaded spot in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water consistently during first two years, especially in dry spells.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune to shape in late winter

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to harsh, full sun in hot climates
Avoid heavy fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen privacy screenVertical accent in garden bedsWinter interest hedge

Companion Plants

Japanese maples Ferns Hostas Azaleas Camellias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria questions

What zones can Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria grow in?

Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria bloom?

Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria 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 Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria need full sun?

Japanese Cedar Cryptomeria does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.