Twisted Hinoki False Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Torulosa'

Nature Hills Nursery

Naturally Twisted Branches Create Sculptural Spiraling Form Unlike Standard Hinoki False Cypress
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 10-12 ft Tall, 6-10 ft Wide
Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant

$132³⁷

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Plant Size

#3 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This evergreen performs best in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct light daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, too much shade results in thin foliage and a loss of the unique, tight twisting that makes this plant a standout.
Soil: Provide well drained, slightly acidic soil to keep the roots healthy. If you are dealing with heavy clay, mix in some organic compost or plant it on a slight mound to ensure water moves away from the root ball and prevents rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide deep watering twice a week to help the root system establish itself in your local soil. Once mature, the Twisted Hinoki is relatively drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture can cause the inner needles to brown and drop prematurely. A thick layer of wood mulch around the base acts like a blanket to keep the roots cool and moisture levels steady.

Pruning Tips

This cypress grows on old wood, so you should avoid heavy structural pruning that cuts back into bare branches. Think of pruning as a light grooming session rather than a haircut; only remove dead or broken branch tips in early spring to maintain its natural, contorted shape. Clearing out the dead needles that collect in the center of the plant improves airflow and prevents fungal issues from taking hold.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your plant with a slow release evergreen fertilizer in early spring just as the new growth begins to emerge. You should avoid applying high nitrogen fertilizers in late summer or fall because this stimulates tender new growth that cannot survive the winter cold. This timing helps the plant focus on strengthening its existing structure before the dormant season arrives.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Attracts pollinators, Cold hardy, Compact/Dwarf, Container Friendly, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Evergreen, Full Sun, Low Maintenance, Non-invasive, Rabbit Resistant, Shade Tolerant
Hardiness Zone	2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a, 13b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	10-12 ft
Width	6-10 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Upright
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Brown, Green
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Arborvitae
Botanical Name	Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Torulosa'
Species	obtusa
Cultivar	Torulosa
Class	Pinopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Twisted Hinoki False Cypress – Evergreen Spiraling Charm

Add an artistic touch to your landscape with the Twisted Hinoki False Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Torulosa'), a one-of-a-kind evergreen conifer featuring curving branches and spiraled, deep green, soft-to-the-touch foliage.

Unlike traditional False Cypress, this compact, slow-growing variety boasts naturally twisted limbs, giving it a sculptural, windswept appearance that stands out in any setting.

With its rich green color, elegant texture, and intriguing form, this low-maintenance, deer-resistant evergreen provides four-season interest. Whether used as a statement plant, a textured foundation shrub, or a dynamic container feature, Twisted Hinoki False Cypress brings effortless charm and movement to your landscape.

Why You'll Love Twisted Hinoki False Cypress

If you're searching for an unusual, eye-catching evergreen that adds architectural elegance to your garden, this unique conifer is the perfect fit!

Naturally Twisting, Sculptural Form – Features curved, irregular branching, creating a windswept, bonsai-like effect.
Deep Green, Evergreen Foliage – Dense, soft-textured sprays of green foliage provide year-round color and contrast.
Compact & Manageable Size – Reaches 10-12 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide, perfect for small gardens and structured plantings.
Low Maintenance & Slow Growing – Maintains its artistic form naturally, requiring little to no pruning.
Cold Hardy & Heat Tolerant – Thrives in USDA Zones 4-8, adapting to varied climates with ease.
Deer & Pest Resistant – Naturally unappealing to deer and other browsing animals, ensuring year-round resilience.

Where to Plant Twisted Hinoki False Cypress

This ornamental, architectural evergreen is versatile and adaptable, making it a stunning addition to both formal and natural landscapes.

Specimen Planting & Focal Points – A natural conversation piece, perfect for entryways, rock gardens, and island beds.
Foundation Plantings – Adds visual interest near homes, patios, and walkways.
Japanese & Zen Gardens – Ideal for serene, artistic landscapes, pairing beautifully with stones, ferns, and maples.
Xeric-Landscaping & Dry Landscapes – Thrives in well-drained, rocky soils in rock gardens, offering height and movement.
Container Gardens & Courtyards – Its compact size and sculptural form make it perfect for decorative planters.
Evergreen Borders & Mixed Shrubs – Blends beautifully with other conifers, broadleaf evergreens, and flowering plants.

How To Care For Twisted Hinoki False Cypress

This long-lived, artistic conifer thrives with minimal upkeep, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; best color and growth occur in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil: Thrives in moist, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil; tolerates sandy or loamy conditions.
Watering: Water deeply when young; once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant.
Mulching: A 3-4 inch mulch layer helps retain moisture and protect roots.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required, only remove dead or wayward branches to enhance their shape.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.

Bring Year-Round Elegance to Your Garden with Twisted Hinoki False Cypress!

With its sculptural form, evergreen foliage, and low-maintenance appeal, Twisted Hinoki False Cypress is a must-have for gardeners who appreciate distinctive, architectural plants. Whether used as a statement piece, an accent shrub, or a unique container plant, this eye-catching conifer delivers beauty with ease.

Order yours today and introduce dynamic, twisting elegance to your landscape!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Twisted Hinoki False Cypress grow?

It has a slow to moderate growth rate, reaching its mature height over many years.

Does it need frequent pruning?

No! Its naturally twisted form requires little to no pruning, just occasional shaping if desired.

Can it grow in containers?

Yes! Its compact size and unique form make it a fantastic choice for patio planters and courtyard gardens.

Is it deer-resistant?

Yes! Deer and rabbits tend to avoid Hinoki False Cypress, making it a great choice for wildlife-prone gardens.

Does it keep its color year-round?

Yes! Its deep green foliage remains vibrant throughout every season, making it a perfect evergreen for winter interest.

Twisted Hinoki False Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Torulosa'