shrub

Dwarf Japanese Cedar

Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana'

$22.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Cryptomeria japonica, native to Asia, is a needled evergreen conifer forming a dense canopy of soft, awl-shaped needles. The species is wind-pollinated, producing inconspicuous pollen and seed cones in spring that hold no ornamental value.

'Globosa Nana' is a slow-growing dwarf cultivar that forms a compact, dome-shaped mound reaching three to four feet tall and wide. Bright green needle tips in spring mature to medium green in summer before turning bronze or plum-purple during winter weather.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesForms a compact green dome with winter shifts to rich bronze and plum-purple foliage.
Practical UsesMaintains a compact globular shape naturally without requirement for heavy pruning.
Ecological BenefitsProvides sheltered winter roosting and nesting cover for small birds and insects.
SpeciesCryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

47"

Width

47"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan and China

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$22.95
In Stock$24.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a planting site in full sun or partial shade with moist, acidic to neutral soil that drains freely.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the container and match the depth so the root flare remains level with the surrounding soil line.
  3. Backfill with native soil, firming lightly to eliminate air pockets, and water thoroughly.
  4. Apply a two-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it clear of the direct stem base.
  5. Water regularly during the first two seasons to maintain consistent moisture while the root system establishes.

Pro Tip

Site in a location protected from cold, drying winds, and never shear into bare, leafless stems, as old wood lacks buds to regenerate.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Plant in moist, organic-rich soil with efficient drainage.
  • Provide shelter from strong, drying winter winds to prevent needle desiccation.
  • Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry summer periods.

Don't

  • Do not prune hard into bare inner branches that lack foliage.
  • Do not allow soil to dry out completely around young or establishing roots.
  • Do not plant in poorly drained heavy clay where water sits for extended periods.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation PlantingRock GardenSpecimen/Focal PointContainer FriendlyBorder Edging

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf Japanese Cedar questions

What zones can Dwarf Japanese Cedar grow in?

Dwarf Japanese Cedar is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dwarf Japanese Cedar deer resistant?

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

When does Dwarf Japanese Cedar bloom?

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

Does Dwarf Japanese Cedar need full sun?

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

Is Dwarf Japanese Cedar drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf Japanese Cedar handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Dwarf Japanese Cedar 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.