Cryptomeria japonica Kyara Gold - Japanese cedar

Cryptomeria japonica 'Kyara Gold' is an atypical form of Japanese cedar, with slightly variegated foliage, whose entire branches are arranged in a spiral, from the branches to the needles. This relatively small conifer has an irregular and charming habit, covered with bright foliage. It can be showcased in the middle of a large flowerbed or as a solitary specimen. The Japanese cedar adapts to any well-drained soil, not too dry, and without excessive limestone.

Cryptomeria japonica 'Kyara Gold' was obtained by mutating a branch of a 'Rasen' Cryptomeria that had cream-yellow variegation on its young shoots. The species, Cryptomeria japonica, is a very tall conifer from the taxodiaceae family native to Japan. In its country of origin, this tree is commonly planted around religious temples. It is a light and mild oceanic climate species, both humid all year round and mild in winter. In Asia, this forest tree resembling a sequoia can reach heights of up to 60m, standing on a trunk with a diameter of 4m covered with reddish-brown bark that peels off in vertical flakes. The foliage is evergreen in winter. It consists of curved needles spirally arranged around the branchlets. The Japanese cedar has given rise to numerous cultivars selected for their small size, foliage appearance, original habit, cold resistance, and better tolerance to our soils and average climates.

Japanese cedar 'Kyara Gold', with medium growth, has a bushy and upright, often irregular habit, especially during the first years of growth. At maturity, around the age of 15, it reaches 4 to 5m in height and 2 to 3m in width. Its needles are spirally arranged around the branches, which also frequently twist around themselves. This conifer does not produce notable flowers or fruits, but its evergreen foliage remains attractive all year round. It is hardy to around -15°C for a mature and well-established specimen. Young plants are sensitive to severe frost. It should be planted in a location sheltered from cold and dry winds and in a non-scorching exposure.

Cryptomeria japonica 'Kyara Gold' will pique the curiosity of your visitors. It makes a beautiful specimen, worthy of being highlighted. It pairs well with Pinus mugo 'Gnom' (dwarf mountain pine), Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus' (Fortune's spindle), Nandina domestica 'Richmond' (sacred bamboo), and Berberis darwini.

Uses/properties:

The wood of the Japanese Cedar is pleasantly fragrant, with a beautiful pink-red colour, lightweight, resistant, and rot-resistant. It is widely used in Japan for all types of construction, both outdoors and indoors.