Plant Library

Other Names:  Japanese Falsecypress, Sawara Falsecypress

Description:

Known as the Threadleaf falsecypress because of the fine, almost string-like foliage, giving an extremely fine texture; still a rather large tree, makes quite an accent

Ornamental Features

Threadleaf Falsecypress is primarily valued in the landscape for its distinctively pyramidal habit of growth. It has rich green evergreen foliage. The threadlike sprays of foliage remain green throughout the winter. The shaggy antique red bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Threadleaf Falsecypress is an evergreen tree with a distinctive and refined pyramidal form. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which can make it a great accent feature on this basis alone.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Threadleaf Falsecypress is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Vertical Accent

Planting & Growing

Threadleaf Falsecypress will grow to be about 30 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 15 feet. It has a low canopy, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 70 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.