Water
Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when young. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Also known as Kyūshū Cypress · Pea-Fruited Cypress · Sawara
Sawara Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera) is a coniferous evergreen tree native to Japan, known for its attractive foliage and use in landscaping and timber production.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though dense shade may reduce vigor and needle color.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil, but tolerates brief dry spells once established. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, Loamy, Sandy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and prolonged frost. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Moderate
25% intensity
Feed in spring with a balanced evergreen fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when young. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Prune to shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and control size. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier shaping is best in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Avoid severe pruning into old wood.
Easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and provide bottom heat for best results.
Seed propagation is also possible but slower.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring. Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Mature trees generally do not require frequent repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sawara Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera)
Where Sawara Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Chamaecyparis |
| Species | Chamaecyparis pisifera |
Similar in genus Chamaecyparis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
