
Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Lutea'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Many decades
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Lutea' is a compact, slow-growing conifer with dense, golden-yellow foliage that forms a low, rounded mound, adding bright color and texture to garden borders or containers. This cultivar is prized for its striking golden-yellow foliage that retains its color throughout the year, making it a standout feature in both formal and informal garden settings.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity for cuttings
- Place in partial shade with protection from harsh sun
- Water consistently during first year, then reduce
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture
- Transplant when established, typically after 1 year
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and provide partial shade for best results
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not prune in late fall or winter
- Never expose to harsh, full sun in hot climates
- Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-draining clay soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress questions
What zones can Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress grow in?
Nana Lutea Japanese False 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 Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress deer resistant?
Yes — Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress need full sun?
Nana Lutea Japanese False Cypress does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Chamaecyparis to compare

Golden Threadleaf False Cypress
Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Filifera Aurea'

Meth Dwarf Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides 'Meth Dwarf'

Webb Gold Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides 'Webb Gold'

Kosteri Hinoki Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Kosteri'

Dwarf Hinoki Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis'

Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides 'Rubicon'
