Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

28 other cultivars

shrub

Compact Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Compacta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa, the Hinoki Cypress, is a slow-growing evergreen conifer native to Japan, revered for its high-quality timber and graceful, aromatic foliage arranged in flattened sprays.

'Compacta' is a dwarf variety that forms a dense, broadly pyramidal shape with rich green foliage. Its slower growth and smaller stature make it suitable for a wide range of landscape applications, including rock gardens and foundation plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

The 'Compacta' Hinoki Cypress is a plant of great beauty and structure, offering year-round interest with its rich green, textured foliage and classic pyramidal form. It adds a touch of elegance and a formal or Asian-inspired feel to the garden.

Its dense habit provides good structure in foundation plantings and mixed borders. As a slow-growing, relatively small conifer, it requires very little maintenance or pruning to keep its shape, making it ideal for smaller landscapes.

Evergreen conifers like the Hinoki Cypress provide important year-round shelter and cover for birds and other small wildlife, protecting them from predators and harsh weather.

SpeciesChamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Very long-lived

Native To

Japan (species)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late winter

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
Provide protection from strong winds.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base.

Pro Tip

Protect from harsh winter winds and afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent foliage scorch and desiccation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Plant in a location with good air circulation.
Provide some afternoon shade in hotter zones.
Mulch to protect the shallow root system.

Don't

Don't plant in heavy, poorly drained clay soil.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Do not prune back into old wood, as it will not regrow.
Don't plant in exposed, windy sites.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural accent for rock gardensTextural foundation plantingElegant specimen for small spaces

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum 'Dissectum'Rhododendron Pieris japonica Hosta Hakonechloa macra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Compact Hinoki Cypress questions

What zones can Compact Hinoki Cypress grow in?

Compact 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 Compact Hinoki Cypress deer resistant?

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

When does Compact Hinoki Cypress bloom?

Compact Hinoki Cypress typically blooms in late winter through late winter. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Compact Hinoki Cypress need full sun?

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