Chamaecyparis obtusa Lycopodioides - Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Lycopodioides' is a variety of Japanese false cypress that is most unusual. Of modest stature and a beautiful dark green colour, it has a globose, irregular habit, and a curious growth, sometimes twisted, reminiscent of certain ferns called clubmosses. Its foliage is composed of round and dense scales, light green when young, emerging against a shiny green background. With its slow growth and small size, it is perfect for small gardens, rockeries, or large pots. It prefers moist, well-drained, neutral to acidic soils and dislikes hot and dry conditions as well as strong winds.

Also known as Hinoki cypress, and capable of reaching a height of 50m (164ft) in its natural environment, the false cypress is a large conifer of the cypress family. It is mainly used for making lacquered furniture and for the construction of numerous buildings such as palaces in its native Japan. This small-sized variety, 'Lycopodioides', with a globular habit, grows slowly. Reaching 1m (3ft 4in) in height after 10 years, it is a modest-sized conifer that will not exceed 3m (9ft 10in) in height and 1.50m (4ft 11in) in width. It develops branches of variable shape, randomly twisted or flattened. Its very fine branches are covered with non-prickly flattened needles.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Lycopodioides' is ideal for structuring a small urban garden or a flower bed. Due to its slow growth, it can be cultivated in a container or a large pot for several years. Its small Japanese silhouette will work wonders in a minimal setting, between large stones, and in a rockery. The architectural qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in a contemporary garden. Mix together dwarf conifers with a columnar, pyramidal, or narrow conical habit. These plants provide lasting structure to a flower bed, mark pathways and border terraces. They serve as a backdrop for small ground cover roses, peonies, or tousled grasses with a very complementary form. They can also be associated with ground cover plants such as dwarf wormwoods and silver baskets, as well as small perennials. The key is to play with volumes and colours.

Tips: Water during periods of high heat, as it is sensitive to drought.