Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Gracilis Compacta'

Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

28 other cultivars

shrub

Compact Hinoki False Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Gracilis Compacta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hinoki Cypress is a slow-growing evergreen conifer native to Japan, featuring graceful, flattened sprays of dark green, scale-like foliage.

'Gracilis Compacta' is a more compact and slower-growing form of the popular 'Gracilis', maintaining a dense, upright, pyramidal shape with elegant, slightly drooping branchlets.

Uses & Benefits:

This conifer is prized for its exceptional form and texture. It has a graceful, upright pyramidal habit with arching branches and flattened sprays of rich green foliage, creating an elegant, almost sculptural effect. It provides year-round structure and beauty in the garden.

Its slow growth rate and compact size make it a very low-maintenance choice for smaller landscapes, foundation plantings, and even large containers. It rarely, if ever, needs pruning to maintain its beautiful shape.

The dense evergreen foliage provides excellent year-round cover and shelter for small birds, protecting them from predators and harsh weather.

SpeciesChamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96"

Width

54"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with moist, well-drained soil and protection from harsh elements.
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any circling roots.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with soil, firming it gently.
Water deeply after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Site where it is protected from strong winter winds and hot afternoon sun to prevent foliage burn and browning.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Protect from winter sun and wind, especially in colder zones.
Amend soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Appreciate its slow growth and elegant form; little to no pruning is needed.

Don't

Don't plant in heavy, wet, or poorly drained clay soil.
Avoid hot, dry, exposed locations.
Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Don't shear the plant; it will ruin its natural graceful habit.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant vertical accent for foundation plantingsGraceful specimen in a rock garden or courtyardTextural element in a mixed conifer border

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'Rhododendron 'P.J.M.'Hosta 'Frances Williams'Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'Pieris japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Compact Hinoki False Cypress questions

What zones can Compact Hinoki False Cypress grow in?

Compact Hinoki False 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 Compact Hinoki False Cypress deer resistant?

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

Does Compact Hinoki False Cypress need full sun?

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