Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Ellwoodii'
tree RHS Award

Ellwoodii false cypress

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Ellwoodii'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

California and Oregon, USA

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Ellwoodii is a compact, conical evergreen with dense, blue-green foliage. It is known for its attractive appearance and adaptability to various soil types. This cultivar is especially valued for its resistance to deer and drought, as well as its suitability for formal gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds vertical structure and evergreen foliage to gardens year-round.
Practical UsesProvides privacy screening and windbreaks.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local bird populations with shelter and nesting sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
  2. Plant in a location with full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
  3. Tuck seedlings or cuttings into the soil, water thoroughly after planting.
  4. Mist the foliage during dry periods to maintain humidity, especially in summer.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  6. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead branches.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sheltered spot to protect from strong winds and harsh winter conditions.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
  • Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune excessively in late summer or fall
  • Refrain from planting in poorly-drained soil
  • Avoid exposing to harsh, direct winter winds without protection

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Slender evergreen screenVertical accent in garden beds

Companion Plants

Japanese maple Hostas Ferns Azaleas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ellwoodii false cypress questions

What zones can Ellwoodii false cypress grow in?

Ellwoodii false cypress 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 Ellwoodii false cypress deer resistant?

Yes β€” Ellwoodii false cypress is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Ellwoodii false cypress need full sun?

Ellwoodii false cypress does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Ellwoodii false 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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