Lawson's Cypress Summer Snow Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Summer Snow' (v)

Names

• Family

  Cupressaceae

• Synonyms

  Lawson's Cypress, Oregon Cedar, Port Orford Cedar, Summer Snow Lawson Cypress

• Common names

  Cupressus lawsoniana, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Lawson's Cypress 'Summer Snow' does not have a widespread reputation for being highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it could potentially cause irritation if ingested or if sensitive individuals handle it, due to natural plant compounds. Symptoms of plant ingestion can vary but might include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always a good practice to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants because of the potential for unexpected toxicities and allergic reactions.

• To pets

  Lawson's Cypress 'Summer Snow' is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets, such as cats and dogs. Nevertheless, ingestion of plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal irritation or discomfort in pets, with symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Always monitor pets around plants and prevent them from chewing on or ingesting plant material, as individual reactions can vary and some pets might be more sensitive to plant compounds than others.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Variegated

• Height

  15 feet (4.57 meters)

• Spread

  10 feet (3.05 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: The Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Summer Snow', commonly known as the Lawson cypress, has a distinctive appearance with variegated foliage that adds visual interest to gardens.
• Seasonal Interest: It produces new creamy-white foliage in spring that adds a seasonal dimension to landscapes.
• Habitat Support: Supports local wildlife by providing shelter and breeding grounds for various bird species.
• Privacy Screen: The dense foliage of the Lawson cypress can be used to create a natural privacy screen or hedge.
• Noise Reduction: Its thick growth habit can help to dampen traffic noise when planted along roads or property lines.
• Erosion Control: The root system of this cypress can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes.
• Ornamental Cones: Produces small, decorative cones that can add to the visual interest of the plant throughout the year.
• Winter Interest: Its evergreen foliage provides color and structure in the garden during the winter months when most other plants are dormant.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has a degree of drought tolerance, making it suitable for regions with less frequent rainfall.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.

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

• The branches and foliage of the Summer Snow cypress are sometimes used in floral arrangements, adding texture and a touch of variegated color to bouquets and wreaths.
• Wood from the Summer Snow cypress can be used for woodworking projects, such as crafting small decorative items, due to its fine grain and workability.
• The tree can be planted in outdoor pots for patio decoration, as it adds evergreen interest and can be shaped to maintain a desired size.
• Summer Snow cypress can be used as a natural privacy screen when planted in a row, creating a visual barrier with its dense foliage.
• The essential oil extracted from its leaves and wood can be used in aromatherapy and the production of perfumes, offering a woody and refreshing scent.
• Dried foliage can be used for creating potpourri mixtures, bringing a forest-fresh smell into the home.
• Mature trees can act as windbreaks in rural and suburban landscapes, protecting smaller plants and reducing soil erosion.
• Due to their pyramidal shape, these trees can be used as focal points in a garden design, drawing the eye upward and adding vertical interest.
• The wood shavings from the Summer Snow cypress can be used as mulch for garden beds, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Summer Snow cypress can be trained into topiary forms for a formal garden look, showcasing the gardener's pruning skills and artistic vision.

Feng Shui

The Lawson's Cypress is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Lawson's Cypress is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Purity: The 'Summer Snow' variety of Lawson's Cypress is indicative of purity, as suggested by its clear, white-tipped foliage resembling a fresh snowfall.
• Endurance: As a hardy conifer, Lawson's Cypress symbolizes endurance and the ability to withstand various conditions, much like how evergreens endure through all seasons.
• Protection: Historically, coniferous trees like Lawson's Cypress are often associated with protection due to their evergreen nature, offering shelter to wildlife throughout the year.
• Longevity: Lawson's Cypress can live for many years, making them a symbol of longevity and the continuity of life.
• Peace: The soft texture and the serene appearance of the 'Summer Snow' can evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, often sought after in garden sanctuaries.