Species

Cryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

18 other cultivars

tree

Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria

Cryptomeria japonica 'Tenzan Yatsabusa'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cryptomeria japonica 'Tenzan Yatsabusa' is an evergreen conifer with dense, upright, and bushy foliage, featuring soft, needle-like leaves that form a compact, conical shape, and produces subtle, reddish-brown cones.

This cultivar is distinguished by its exceptionally compact growth habit and finely textured foliage, making it ideal for small gardens and bonsai cultivation.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with dense, dark foliage that adds structure to gardens and landscapes.

Low-maintenance evergreen that requires minimal pruning and care.

Supports local bird populations and maintains biodiversity.

SpeciesCryptomeria japonicaJapanese Cedar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a partially shaded location with well-drained loamy soil.
Tuck seeds or young plants into soil, water thoroughly.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best establishment.
Prune lightly after planting to shape and remove dead branches.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and avoid overly dry sites for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune lightly to maintain shape
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Don’t plant in compacted or poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with dense, dark foliageSpecimen tree in small gardens

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Japanese maples

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria questions

What zones can Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria grow in?

Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria 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 Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria bloom?

Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria need full sun?

Tenzan Yatsabusa Cryptomeria does best in part shade.