Fokienia hodginsii
tree

Hodgins' cypress

Fokienia hodginsii

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist, humid conditions

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Southeastern China, northern Vietnam, Laos

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Fokienia hodginsii is a coniferous tree with a tall, straight trunk and dense, evergreen foliage composed of aromatic, needle-like leaves arranged in whorls. It produces conical seed cones and has a pyramidal growth habit. This species is valued for its durable, fragrant timber and its adaptability to subtropical and tropical montane environments, making it a significant ornamental and timber species in East Asia.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery with aromatic foliage, adding visual interest in shaded gardens.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant once established, reducing water needs.
Ecological BenefitsProvides shelter for birds and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a well-drained, acidic soil for planting.
  2. Tuck young plants into a partly shaded spot in early spring.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist during first year.
  4. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  5. Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove any dead branches.
  6. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and avoid heavy clay soils for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Prune lightly to maintain shape

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Do not fertilize in late fall
  • Refrain from heavy pruning in summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen privacy screenArchitectural specimen in a shaded garden

Companion Plants

Japanese maple Ferns Hostas Azaleas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hodgins' cypress questions

What zones can Hodgins' cypress grow in?

Hodgins' cypress is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hodgins' cypress deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Hodgins' cypress, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Hodgins' cypress bloom?

Hodgins' 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 Hodgins' cypress need full sun?

Hodgins' cypress does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

Grow Hodgins' 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.

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