The Story
Plant Bio
Cryptomeria japonica 'Tsukumo' is an evergreen conifer with a dense, conical shape, soft, feathery foliage, and upright, reddish-brown cones, providing year-round greenery and a distinctive silhouette.
This cultivar is notable for its compact, miniature form and vibrant, finely textured foliage, making it ideal for small gardens and bonsai cultivation.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
18 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Over 50 years
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining, acidic soil location with partial shade.
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the ground in early spring or fall.
- Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
- Mist cuttings if propagating via cuttings, keep humid for 6 weeks.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot and provide consistent moisture.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly to maintain shape ❌ over-pruning
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid heavy pruning in late summer ❌
- Don't plant in waterlogged soil ❌
- Never ignore pest signs
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Cedar Tsukumo questions
What zones can Japanese Cedar Tsukumo grow in?
Japanese Cedar Tsukumo is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. 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 Tsukumo deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Cedar Tsukumo is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Japanese Cedar Tsukumo need full sun?
Japanese Cedar Tsukumo does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Cryptomeria to compare

Golden Japanese Cedar
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans Aurea'

Japanese Cedar Sekkan
Cryptomeria japonica 'Sekkan'

Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig
Cryptomeria japonica 'Yellow Twig'

Mitama Japanese Cedar
Cryptomeria japonica 'Mitama'

Japanese Cedar Jindai
Cryptomeria japonica 'Jindai'

Japanese Cedar Taisho Tamasugi
Cryptomeria japonica 'Taisho Tamasugi'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Japanese Cedar Tsukumo 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.



















