Golden Fernspray Hinoki Cypress

Botanical Name: Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Fernspray Gold’

Common Name: Golden Fernspray Hinoki Cypress

Mature Height and Width:
8–12' tall × 4–6' wide (slow to moderate growth rate)

Growth Habit: Upright, irregular pyramidal evergreen with strongly layered, fern-like branching. Vertical leader present. Branching forms flattened horizontal tiers with cascading secondary sprays. Naturally asymmetrical and architectural rather than dense and compact.

Foliage Description: Distinct fern-like, deeply dissected scale sprays with pronounced texture. New growth bright golden-yellow, especially at tips and outer layers. Interior foliage matures to yellow-green to medium green. Branch sprays are finely divided, soft-textured, and clearly separated, creating visible air space between layers.

Flower Description: Inconspicuous; not ornamental.

Bloom Time: Spring (non-ornamental cones).

Fall Color: Evergreen; golden tones persist year-round, slightly deeper green toward interior in winter.

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; best golden coloration in full sun with consistent moisture and good drainage.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 5–8 (reliable in Northeast Zones 5–7 with protection from harsh winter winds).

Notable Landscape Uses: Specimen evergreen; rock garden vertical accent; mixed conifer garden focal point; foundation feature; architectural courtyard planting.

Deer Resistance: High
Consistently strong resistance in Northeast Zones 5–7 field conditions.