Species

Chamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

28 other cultivars

shrub

Verdon Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Verdoni'

The Story

Plant Bio

Chamaecyparis obtusa, or Hinoki Cypress, is a slow-growing evergreen conifer from Japan, highly regarded for its graceful form and finely textured foliage.

'Verdoni' is a slow-growing, dwarf conifer with a compact, upright, conical shape. Its foliage emerges a brilliant golden-yellow, holding its color well through summer before taking on slight bronze tones in winter.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a brilliant splash of golden-yellow color and fine texture year-round. Its slow growth and neat, conical shape make it a superb focal point without overwhelming the space.

Perfectly suited for small gardens, rockeries, container planting, or as a bright accent in a mixed border. Its low maintenance needs make it an easy-care choice.

The dense evergreen structure offers valuable winter shelter for small birds and other wildlife, protecting them from harsh weather and predators.

SpeciesChamaecyparis obtusaHinoki Cypress

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers some humidity

Lifespan

Slow-growing, long-lived conifer

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Provide morning sun and protection from hot afternoon sun.
Dig a hole twice the width of the container.
Set the plant with the root flare at or slightly above soil level.
Backfill with native soil, firm gently, and water deeply.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Morning sun with afternoon shade provides the best golden color without scorching the delicate foliage, especially in warmer climates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, but do not oversaturate.
Protect from drying winter winds to prevent foliage burn.
Mulch to keep the shallow root system cool and moist.

Don't

Do not plant in full, hot afternoon sun in southern zones.
Do not allow the soil to become waterlogged.
Do not prune heavily or into wood without needles.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright golden focal pointContainer specimen for patiosAccent in mixed conifer beds

Companion Plants

Heuchera 'Citronelle'Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'Hosta 'Sum and Substance'Berberis thunbergii 'Aurea Nana'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Verdon Hinoki Cypress questions

What zones can Verdon Hinoki Cypress grow in?

Verdon 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 Verdon Hinoki Cypress deer resistant?

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

Does Verdon Hinoki Cypress need full sun?

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