Dwarf Hinoki Cypress Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana'
ABOUT
The Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana', commonly known as Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, is a slow-growing, evergreen coniferous shrub known for its richly green, fan-like foliage. Its leaves are arranged in dense, shell-like sprays that maintain a lush appearance year-round. The scale-like leaves are quite small, overlapping one another, creating a textured effect. The overall form of the Dwarf Hinoki Cypress is somewhat pyramidal to globular, with branches that spread slightly, contributing to its somewhat rounded, yet slightly irregular silhouette. If observed closely, the foliage may exhibit a hint of dark green color. The bark, which is rarely seen due to the dense foliage, has a reddish-brown shade that provides an attractive contrast when visible. Cones may develop on mature specimens, and they are small, not typically exceeding the size of a small marble. Overall, the plant presents a compact and ornamental appearance that makes it highly valued in landscaping and garden settings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, Nana Hinoki Cypress, Miniature Hinoki Cypress, Compact Hinoki Cypress.
Common names
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Pygmaea', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Pygmaea Aurescens', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Aurea', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Minima', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Lyons', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Lutea Nana', Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Kosteri', Retinispora obtusa, Retinispora obtusa 'Nana', Thujopsis obtusa.
ToxicityTo humans
The Hinoki cypress is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, all plant ingestion should be treated with caution, and though rare, sensitive individuals might experience an allergic reaction or gastrointestinal discomfort if parts of the plant are ingested.
To pets
The Hinoki cypress is not commonly listed as toxic to pets like dogs and cats. Ingestion of plant material may cause mild stomach upset in some animals, but significant toxic effects are not typically observed. As with any non-food plant, ingestion should be avoided, and close observation is warranted if a pet does consume any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
2-4 feet [0.6-1.2 meters]
Spread
2-4 feet [0.6-1.2 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Dwarf Hinoki Cypress adds visual interest to the landscape with its attractive, dense foliage and unique, conical shape.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a good tolerance for drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: The Dwarf Hinoki Cypress is capable of withstanding cold temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Suitable for Small Spaces: Its compact size makes it ideal for use in smaller gardens, urban landscapes, or in containers.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help prevent soil erosion on slopes and in areas prone to losing topsoil.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small wildlife within its dense foliage.
- Evergreen Presence: As an evergreen, it provides year-round color and structure to a garden setting.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hinoki cypress wood shavings can be used as a natural moth repellent for protecting clothes and linens in closets and drawers.
- Wood from the Hinoki cypress can be used in the construction of traditional Japanese Noh theaters due to its fine grain and resistance to rot.
- Oil extracted from the leaves and wood of Hinoki cypress can be used in aromatherapy for its soothing, woodsy fragrance.
- The wood of Hinoki cypress is sometimes used in the crafting of musical instruments, such as flutes and drums, for its acoustic properties.
- In bonsai, the slow-growing nature and dense foliage of the Hinoki cypress make it an ideal candidate for creating miniature landscapes.
- Hinoki cypress twigs can be used as natural skewers for grilling due to their ability to withstand heat and add a subtle flavor to the food.
- Wood chips from the Hinoki cypress can be utilized as a mulch in gardens to help retain soil moisture and provide a decorative ground cover.
- Thinned or pruned branches of Hinoki cypress can be fashioned into wreaths and other decorations, especially around the holidays.
- The dense wood of Hinoki cypress is used for creating high-quality cutting boards and kitchen utensils that resist water and warping.
- In aquariums, branches of Hinoki cypress can be used as a part of the aquascaping design to create a natural environment for fish.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hinoki cypress is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hinoki cypress is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana', commonly known as Hinoki Cypress, is a slow-growing coniferous tree that can live for hundreds of years, thus symbolizing a long and prosperous life.
- Peace: The Hinoki Cypress has a serene and stable growth habit, along with a pleasant fragrance, representing peace and tranquility.
- Sacredness: In Japan, the Hinoki Cypress is considered sacred and is often used in the construction of temples and shrines, symbolizing purity and sacred spaces.
- Resilience: Adapted to a variety of growing conditions and able to withstand many pests and diseases, the Hinoki Cypress reflects resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.
WaterThe Dwarf Hinoki Cypress should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly every week with about a gallon of water per session, depending on the size and age of the plant, and adjust for rainfall. In hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week. During winter, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to completely dry out. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so ensure that the pot or ground the plant is in has good drainage.
LightThe Dwarf Hinoki Cypress requires a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. Too much shade can lead to sparse, leggy growth, so if you notice this, consider moving the plant to a sunnier location.
TemperatureThe Dwarf Hinoki Cypress thrives in a range of temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 4 through 8. It can withstand minimum winter temperatures down to around -30 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 30 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers cooler climates and might not do well in regions where temperatures frequently exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningThe Dwarf Hinoki Cypress should be pruned to maintain its shape and size, to remove any dead or diseased branches, and to promote denser foliage. Pruning is best done in the early spring before the growing season starts. It's a slow-growing plant, so pruning is needed only occasionally—every few years or as desired to shape the plant. When pruning, use sharp, clean tools and make cuts just above a lateral branch to encourage bushier growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Dwarf Hinoki Cypress prefers a well-draining soil mix, enhanced with organic matter like bark or compost, and slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (pH 5.0-7.0). A mix of one part peat, one part pine bark, and one part coarse sand or perlite is suitable. Regular monitoring and amendments can help maintain the ideal pH.
RepottingDwarf Hinoki Cypresses are slow-growing and should be repotted every 3-5 years. They can become pot-bound and may require less frequent repotting as they mature. It's best to repot in the early spring before the growth season begins.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Hinoki Cypress thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ranging from 40% to 70%. It's well-suited to outdoor environments where these humidity levels are naturally present, avoiding excessively dry conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Position by bright window, avoid direct sun; mist for humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, shelter from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleChamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana', or Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, begins as a seed, which, once germinated, develops into a seedling. The seedling then grows into a juvenile plant, where the distinctive scale-like foliage starts to develop. As it matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it focuses on growth and develops a woody trunk and a conical shape characteristic of mature cypress trees. The Dwarf Hinoki Cypress may start producing cones in its maturity, which contain the seeds for the next generation. These cones release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant's final stage is senescence, where growth slows and it eventually dies, potentially after many decades due to this species' longevity.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana', commonly known as Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, is generally propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. This is because they are slow-growing and can be difficult to propagate by seeds. The best time for taking cuttings is during the late summer to early fall. To propagate, one needs to select a healthy, semi-hardwood stem from the current year's growth. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) long piece just below a node, strip the foliage from the bottom half, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining rooting medium, such as a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring at least one node is buried where roots will form. The container with the cutting should be placed in a humid environment with indirect light until roots develop, which typically takes several weeks to a few months.
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