Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Bess'
tree

'Bess' Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Bess'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Bess' is an evergreen conifer with dense, scale-like foliage forming a compact, pyramidal shape. Its rich green leaves display a fine texture, and it produces small, inconspicuous cones. This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly compact growth habit and vibrant green foliage, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or as a decorative specimen.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides year-round greenery with soft, lush foliage.
Practical UsesActs as a windbreak and privacy screen.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with shelter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select well-draining soil with moderate moisture.
  2. Plant in partial shade or dappled sunlight for best growth.
  3. Tuck roots into hole and water thoroughly after planting.
  4. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
  5. Mulch around base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize annually with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in wet soils.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
  • Prune lightly to maintain shape ❌
  • Mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall
  • Refrain from planting in heavy clay with poor drainage

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen privacy hedgeShadowy woodland borderVertical accent in garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Azaleas Japanese maples Lavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Bess' Hinoki Cypress questions

What zones can 'Bess' Hinoki Cypress grow in?

'Bess' 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 'Bess' Hinoki Cypress deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse 'Bess' Hinoki Cypress, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does 'Bess' Hinoki Cypress bloom?

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

Does 'Bess' Hinoki Cypress need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow 'Bess' 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.

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