Cypress Traits and Varieties

Cypress Traits

  • Rounded growth characteristics

  • Edges are rough and prickly

  • Cones hang underneath and possess a rounded shape

Chamaecyparis Obtusa (Hinoki Falsecypress)

  • Appearance and Structure:

    • Cones resemble blocks and have a gumdrop shape.

    • Features a single stem.

    • Generally classified as a small to medium-sized tree.

  • Scale Characteristics:

    • The scales are white on the outside with a contrasting appearance on the underside.

    • The tips of the scales point slightly downward.

    • The tips are horse shoe shaped, pointing in various directions.

  • Branch Structure:

    • Rounded tips on branches.

    • Fan-shaped branches that are much more rounded, contributing to its overall aesthetic.

X Cupressocyparis Leylandii (Leyland Cypress)

  • Use:

    • Primarily used as a hedging and screening plant.

  • Growth Rate:

    • Exhibits a fast growth rate of approximately 3-4 feet per year.

    • Can reach heights of 40-50 feet.

  • Physical Characteristics:

    • Features very round scales without markings.

    • The texture is somewhat prickly and has a very rich green color.

    • Branches arch up and outwards, enhancing its screening ability.

Chamaecyparis Nootkatensis ‘Pendula’ (Weeping Nootka Falsecypress)

  • Branch Characteristics:

    • Branches arch outward, contributing to its weeping form.

    • The tips of the branches droop downwards.

  • Scale Characteristics:

    • Rounded scales when viewed in cross-section.

    • The texture is slightly prickly when stroked, creating a tactile experience.

Chamaecyparis Pisifera (Filifera) (Threadleaf Sawara Falsecypress)

  • Growth Habit:

    • Displays a unique growth habit where it resembles threads or dreadlocks.

    • Typical height ranges between 35-40 feet.

    • Highly tolerant of pruning, allowing for significant maintenance flexibility.

  • Branch and Scale Structure:

    • Stems consist of thin threads that dangle down, creating an intricate appearance.

    • Always produces tiny cones, contributing to its reproductive cycle.

Chamaecyparis Pisifera (Plumosa) (Sawara Falsecypress)

  • Size:

    • Classified as a medium to large tree.

  • Aesthetic Comparison:

    • Creates an impression similar to arborvitae due to its form.

  • Needle and Scale Features:

    • Holds needles in a narrow, spiral-like fashion with a feather-like appearance.

    • The tree is generally rounded in shape.

    • Scales on the edges are pointed and oriented away from the stem.

    • Features very faint 'X' and 'Y' shaped white markings, adding to its decorative appeal.