Species

Cryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

18 other cultivars

tree

Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig

Cryptomeria japonica 'Yellow Twig'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cryptomeria japonica 'Yellow Twig' is an evergreen conifer with dense, soft, bright yellow-green foliage that forms upright, conical shapes, creating a striking vertical accent in the landscape.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant yellow foliage, which maintains its color throughout the year, adding brightness and contrast to garden compositions.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round visual interest with its vibrant yellow foliage and elegant form.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports local bird populations as a shelter and nesting site.

SpeciesCryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained loamy soil.
Tuck seeds or young plants into prepared soil, water thoroughly.
Maintain consistent moisture during first growing season.
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Prune lightly after planting to shape and remove dead branches.
Monitor for pests and diseases regularly.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture ❌
Prune to maintain shape and health
Fertilize in early spring for vigorous growth

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy pruning in late fall
Do not plant in compacted clay soil
Ignore pest infestations

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen privacy hedgeArchitectural specimen with striking yellow foliage

Companion Plants

Japanese Maple Hostas Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig questions

What zones can Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig grow in?

Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig 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 Yellow Twig deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig bloom?

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

Does Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig need full sun?

Japanese Cedar Yellow Twig does best in full sun (6+ hours).