Lawson's Cypress Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Green Hedger'

Names

• Family

  Cupressaceae

• Synonyms

  Lawson's Cypress, Oregon Cedar, Port Orford Cedar

• Common names

  Cupressus lawsoniana, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana var. lawsoniana.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant known as Lawson's cypress is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans. However, like many plants, it could potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions if ingested or if sensitive individuals come into contact with its sap. Ingesting parts of this plant might lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Though not commonly associated with severe poisoning, care should be taken to avoid ingestion, particularly by children or pets, and to avoid contact with the sap if you have sensitive skin.

• To pets

  Lawson's cypress can also be considered to have low toxicity to pets, but it can still cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets might include vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly drooling if the sap comes into contact with their mouth or skin. While serious complications are unlikely, it's important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting this plant to avoid any potential discomfort or allergic reactions. If a pet does ingest Lawson's cypress and shows symptoms of distress, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Height

  10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)

• Spread

  4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5-8

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: The Lawson Cypress 'Green Hedger' provides year-round ornamental interest with its rich green foliage and conical shape.
• Privacy Screening: It grows dense and tall, making it ideal for creating private spaces in gardens and landscapes.
• Noise Reduction: The thick foliage can help dampen noise from roads and neighbors when planted in a hedge or barrier form.
• Windbreak: When planted in rows, it can act as a windbreak, protecting gardens and homes from strong winds.
• Habitat Support: It offers shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, aside from occasional pruning to maintain shape.
• Soil Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion, particularly on slopes.
• Durable in Various Climates: Tolerates a range of temperatures and climates, making it a versatile choice for many regions.
• Adaptability: Lawson Cypress 'Green Hedger' can adapt to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils.
• Resistant to Deer: The plant is generally resistant to browsing by deer, making it suitable for rural and suburban areas where deer are a concern.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Woodworking – The wood of Lawson's Cypress is valued for its fine texture and is often used to make furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items.
• Model Building – Due to its fine grain, the wood is also highly regarded in model making, including model trains and architectural models.
• Fence Posts – The natural rot resistance of Lawson's Cypress makes it suitable for outdoor uses, such as fence posts and garden structures.
• Scented Items – The aromatic qualities of the wood can be used in the production of scented items like sachets and potpourris.
• Shipbuilding – Historically, the rot-resistant nature of the wood has been employed in shipbuilding for specific parts that needed to last in wet environments.
• Crafting – The wood can be used for various craft projects, where the quality of the wood adds aesthetic value to the finished product.
• Aquariums – When properly treated, branches can be used in aquariums as a natural decoration that offers hiding places for fish.
• Garden Path Borders – The plant can be pruned into shapes to create visually pleasing borders along garden paths.
• Christmas Decorations – The foliage is sometimes used in wreaths and other holiday greenery for its pleasant smell and lush look.
• Bonsai – Although not common, some enthusiasts may utilize Lawson's Cypress for creating bonsai trees due to its evergreen nature and scale-like leaves.

Feng Shui

The Lawson cypress is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Lawson cypress is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Longevity: Lawson's cypress, also known as Port Orford cedar, is known for its longevity. This tree species can live for many years, symbolizing endurance and the continuity of life.
• Sanctuary: With its thick foliage and evergreen nature, this plant is often associated with providing a protective sanctuary, symbolizing safety and shelter.
• Purity: The Lawson's cypress has been associated with purity due to its clean, fresh scent and its role in purifying the air, representing cleanliness and freshness in one's life.
• Serenity: The tranquil and calm presence of Lawson's cypress can symbolize peace and serenity, suggesting a sense of calmness and quiet strength.
• Healing: Traditionally, many parts of the Lawson's cypress have been used for their healing properties. Thus, the plant can symbolize health and restoration.