Dwarf Hinoki Cypress

Botanical Name: Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Nana Gracilis’

Common Name: Dwarf Hinoki Cypress

Mature Height and Width:
4-6' tall × 2-4' wide (slow growing; often smaller in first decade)

Growth Habit: Dense, irregular pyramidal to broadly conical evergreen with sculptural, layered branching. Slow growth rate. Naturally compact but not tight or sheared.

Foliage Description: Deep rich green scale foliage arranged in tightly layered, fan-like sprays. Shell-like cupped branch pads stack irregularly, creating visible tiered texture and interior depth. New growth slightly lighter green at tips.

Flower Description: Inconspicuous; not ornamental.

Bloom Time: Spring (non-ornamental cones).

Fall Color: Evergreen; dark green retained year-round.

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; best density and structure in full sun with adequate moisture.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 4–8 (very reliable in Northeast Zones 5–7).

Notable Landscape Uses: Foundation accent; rock garden specimen; courtyard focal point; mixed conifer composition; small-scale architectural evergreen.

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