Species

19 other cultivars

tree

Japanese Cedar Tansu

The Story

Plant Bio

Cryptomeria japonica 'Tansu' is an evergreen conifer with a compact, upright growth habit, featuring soft, bluish-green foliage that forms dense, layered sprays resembling miniature cedar trees.

This cultivar is valued for its striking, neatly tiered appearance and its adaptability to small garden spaces, making it an ideal ornamental specimen for formal landscapes.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds year-round greenery with elegant, soft foliage that enhances landscape beauty.

Provides privacy screening and windbreaks while requiring minimal maintenance.

Supports local bird populations and improves air quality.

SpeciesCryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Up to 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining, acidic soil for planting.
Tuck young trees into a sheltered, partially shaded spot.
Water regularly during the first two years to establish roots.
Mist foliage during dry spells to prevent dehydration.
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Plant in spring for best establishment; avoid scorching afternoon sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

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

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to harsh, full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy fertilizing during dormancy

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

Evergreen privacy hedgeVertical accent in the gardenShade tree with textured foliage

Companion Plants

Azalea Japanese Maple HostaFerns Camellia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Cedar Tansu questions

What zones can Japanese Cedar Tansu grow in?

Japanese Cedar Tansu 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 Tansu deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Cedar Tansu bloom?

Japanese Cedar Tansu typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Cedar Tansu need full sun?

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