Golden Hinoki Cypress

Botanical Name: Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Aurea’

Common Name: Golden Hinoki Cypress

Mature Height and Width:
15–25' tall × 8–12' wide

Growth Habit: Upright pyramidal evergreen with strong central leader and layered, slightly irregular branching. Broader at the base with ascending branch sprays. Slow to moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Scale-like foliage arranged in flattened fan-shaped sprays. New growth bright golden-yellow, maturing to yellow-green with darker interior foliage. Layered shell-like branching creates sculptural texture and visible depth.

Flower Description: Inconspicuous; not ornamental.

Bloom Time: Spring (non-ornamental reproductive structures).

Fall Color: Evergreen; golden to yellow-green foliage retained year-round, richest on outer growth.

Light Requirements: Full sun to light partial shade; best golden coloration in full sun without excessive scorch.

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

Notable Landscape Uses: Foundation accent; mixed conifer garden; vertical focal point; courtyard planting; color contrast specimen.

Deer Resistance: High
Hinoki cypress selections show strong resistance in Northeast Zones 5–7 field conditions.