Golden Mop False Cypress

Name: Golden Mop False Cypress
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 03015
Price: 21.8 USD
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.71 (7 reviews)

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'

Brightest Gold Mop Cypress with Finer Foliage than Parent Cultivar 'Filifera Aurea'
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-5
Grows 5 ft Tall and Wide
Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
Perfect for Hedge or Foundation Planting

$62²⁷

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Plant Size

#2 Container #3 Container

Product variants

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, Heat Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Non-invasive, Rabbit Resistant, Shade Tolerant, Disease resistant, Groundcover
Hardiness Zone	4a to 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	5 ft
Width	5 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Bushy
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Brown, Green
Foliage Color	Yellow
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Arborvitae
Botanical Name	Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'
Species	pisifera
Cultivar	Golden Mop
Class	Pinopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Dwarf Golden Mop False Cypress has Outstanding Color

If you want an easy care plant that brings a big visual impact, you'll adore Golden Mop False Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'). This dwarf evergreen shrub features outstanding yellow landscape color.

This is a slow-growing dwarf evergreen shrub with a lot of personality. From fluffy, fine-textured golden foliage - to lemony yellow brand-new growth, you'll be entranced by its good looks.

The long, narrow, bowing stems give Golden Mop False Cypress a delightfully fuzzy appearance, adding to its charm. This plant may appear a bit soft and delicate, as the fine-needled foliage gently bounces and sways in the breeze.

A gently weeping habit might fool you into thinking you'll have to baby it. Not true! This is a tough shrub that can handle extreme cold. The golden yellow foliage will hold true throughout the seasons so you can enjoy the bright color in your landscape year-round.

For outstanding color in an adorable shrub, the Golden Mop False Cypress is the choice for you!

How to Use Golden Mop False Cypress in the Landscape

Called "Golden Mop" for its mop-head appearance, this little gem features a cute, unkempt look with a ground-hugging appearance that looks fantastic when used in mass.

Order an informal grouping of 3, 5, or 7 plants for a sunny location and combine them with colorful perennials and annuals for an amazing look. It also works beautifully with deep, purple foliage plants, as well as the cool tones of Bluestem grasses.

It would work well for foundation plantings, or in the front of borders. And because of the great color, you can repeat this plant throughout your mixed shrub or perennial borders to beef up some winter presence in the yard. This plant stays bright and colorful year-round.

Try Golden Mop Cypress in Rock Gardens to soften the look. Try it near a street. It's drought tolerant once established and even tolerates some salt. You could use this plant for Bonsai and in container gardening, as well!

Bright Foliage Color
Dwarf Evergreen
Rounded Mop-Like Appearance
Great In Containers
Excellent Foundation or Massing Plant

#ProPlantTips for Care

Golden Mop False Cypress has no serious insect or disease problems of any note. It's considered a low-maintenance shrub, so you won't have to fuss with it like some other landscape varieties.

While it can perform in full sun to part shade, the color will be best in full sun. It would work well for foundation plantings where it is sunny and has a well-drained soil type. If needed, give the shrub a light trim after new growth finishes emerging in the summer.

Give it an annual dose of Dr. Earth Acid Loves Organic and Natural Fertilizer in spring.

Full Sun For Best Color
Well-Drained Soil - Saline Soil Tolerant
Moderate Moisture Needs
Cold Hardy
Disease Resistant

You'll love this best-selling plant, as so many others do. For the best selection, order now at NatureHills.com!

Other Arborvitae varieties

Well's Special Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Well's Special’

(2)

Regular price $92⁶⁶
Fernspray Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Filicoides'

Regular price $101⁹⁰
Tempelhof Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Tempelhof'

(4)

Regular price $132³⁷
Contorted Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta'

Regular price $132³⁷
Green Cushion Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Green Cushion'

New arrival

Regular price $74⁹⁹
Cream Tart Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Cream Tart'

New arrival

Regular price $74⁹⁹
Red Star Atlantic White Cedar
Chamaecyparis thyoides 'Red Star'

New arrival

Regular price $64⁹⁹
Chirimen Hinoki False Cypress
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Chirimen'

New arrival

Regular price $64⁹⁹

Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.

It came in great shape

It came in great shape andl
Besutiful

Glad the Golden Mop arrived in good shape, Marjorie. These evergreens really do have a presence in the garden with that soft, golden threadleaf texture. Give it a spot with good sun and it will only get more vibrant over time. Thanks for sharing!

Living in Western NY State, this false cypress is also 'deer resistant'.

Living in Western NY State, let me say this false cypress, besides being a generally all around hardy planting, it's also 'deer resistant."

Dear Merc S.,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Golden Mop False Cypress! We're delighted to hear that this resilient plant is performing well for you in western New York—and that it's providing the extra benefit of deer resistance. It’s always wonderful to know which plants thrive and stand strong in specific regions, and your insight will surely help fellow gardeners make informed choices.

If you’re interested in extending your garden’s defense against deer, we have a variety of other deer-resistant options and gardening tips tailored for the Northeast that we’d be happy to share with you. Feel free to reach out anytime for recommendations or care advice.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Living in Western NY State, this false cypress is also 'deer resistant'.

Living in Western NY State, let me say this false cypress, besides being a generally all around hardy planting, it's also 'deer resistant."

Dear Merc S.,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Golden Mop False Cypress! We're delighted to hear that this plant is thriving in Western NY and proving to be not only hardy but also deer resistant—a quality many gardeners appreciate in areas where deer can pose a challenge. Your insights will definitely help fellow plant lovers make informed choices based on regional suitability and deer resistance.

If you’re interested in extending your plant palette with other deer-resistant or hardy options for your area, we’re always here to offer recommendations! Don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our plant resources; selecting companions carefully can create a beautiful, resilient garden sanctuary.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Evergreen

Not too many weeping type evergreens this small are available in planting zone 5. The Golden Mop False Cypress is a new plant for me and I really like it so far. It is different.

Dear Jenni,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Golden Mop False Cypress! We’re delighted to hear that this unique, petite evergreen is a great fit for your Zone 5 garden. It’s true—finding small, weeping evergreens suitable for your zone can be challenging, and the Golden Mop False Cypress does bring a distinct charm with its vibrant color and texture.

If you haven’t already, we recommend planting it in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade to maintain that rich golden hue. Also, occasional light pruning will help preserve its natural form as it grows. Should you ever have questions about care tips or want to explore companion plants that flourish alongside it, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thanks again for choosing Nature Hills and for your thoughtful review—we’re excited to see your garden flourish with your new addition!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Evergreen

Not too many weeping type evergreens this small are available in planting zone 5. The Golden Mop False Cypress is a new plant for me and I really like it so far. It is different.

Dear Jenni,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Golden Mop False Cypress! We’re delighted to hear that this unique weeping evergreen is a great addition to your Zone 5 garden. It’s true that plants with such graceful, compact shapes can be hard to find for cooler climates, so finding something new—and enjoyable—is always exciting.

As you continue to care for your Golden Mop, remember it prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and watering consistently during dry spells helps maintain its vibrant golden color. If you need more seasonal tips or ideas to complement your new plant, we have detailed guides and a community of fellow gardeners on our website happy to inspire you.

Thanks again for choosing Nature Hills and taking a chance on a beautiful new addition! We’re rooting for your greenery’s ongoing success.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Great

This is a great shrub and looks wonderful in my yard!

Hi TY,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with your Golden Mop False Cypress! We're delighted to hear that it’s thriving and adds such beauty to your yard. These shrubs can really brighten a space with their vibrant color and textured foliage.

If you ever have any questions about care—like watering schedules, pruning tips, or ways to help it stay healthy through seasonal changes—we’re always here to help. You might also find our plant care guides on NatureHills.com helpful for getting the most out of your shrubs.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Great

This is a great shrub and looks wonderful in my yard!

Hi Ty,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Golden Mop False Cypress! We're thrilled to hear that the shrub is looking wonderful in your yard. It’s such a unique and graceful evergreen, and it sounds like it’s truly enhancing your outdoor space.

If you ever want some tips on caring for your Golden Mop—for example, watering best practices or winter protection—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to provide tailored advice to help your plants thrive.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Do deer eat gold mop cypress?

Golden Mop False Cypress is generally deer resistant due to its aromatic evergreen foliage. Deer typically avoid cypress varieties because they dislike the scent and texture of the fine needles. Plant it in areas where deer browsing is a concern for reliable color without protection.

What is its mature height and width?

Golden Mop False Cypress reaches 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide at maturity. This slow-growing dwarf shrub maintains a compact, ground-hugging form perfect for small spaces. Plan for its spreading habit when spacing plants in mass plantings available at naturehills.com.

What USDA hardiness zones can Golden Mop False Cypress survive in?

Golden Mop False Cypress thrives in USDA zones 4-8, handling extreme cold with ease. This tough evergreen maintains its bright golden color year-round, even in harsh winter conditions. Plant it in well-draining soil with full to partial sun for best results.

Does Golden Mop False Cypress need full sun or can it tolerate partial shade?

Golden Mop False Cypress performs best in full sun to maintain its vibrant golden color. While it can tolerate some light shade, the foliage may become more green and less brilliant. Plant in a sunny location for the most striking year-round color impact.

How often should I water Golden Mop False Cypress after planting?

Water newly planted Golden Mop False Cypress deeply 2-3 times per week for the first month, then weekly until established. This drought-tolerant shrub needs consistent moisture initially but becomes very low-maintenance once its roots are established. Check soil moisture regularly and available varieties at naturehills.com.

Is Golden Mop False Cypress a fast-growing or slow-growing plant?

Golden Mop False Cypress is a slow-growing dwarf evergreen shrub. Its compact growth habit makes it perfect for small spaces and containers where you don't want rapid expansion. Plan for gradual development when designing your landscape layout.

Does Golden Mop False Cypress produce flowers and if so, what color are they?

Golden Mop False Cypress is grown for its stunning golden foliage rather than flowers. As an evergreen conifer, it produces small, inconspicuous cones instead of showy blooms. Focus on pairing its bright yellow color with purple foliage plants or colorful perennials for visual interest.

Does Golden Mop False Cypress require regular pruning or maintenance?

Golden Mop False Cypress is extremely low-maintenance and rarely needs pruning due to its naturally slow growth habit. This tough shrub maintains its attractive mop-head shape on its own. Simply remove any dead or damaged branches as needed, and avoid heavy pruning which can ruin its natural form.

Will Golden Mop False Cypress maintain its golden color year-round?

Yes, Golden Mop False Cypress maintains its bright golden yellow foliage throughout all seasons. The color holds true year-round, providing consistent landscape interest even in winter. Plant it where you want reliable golden color in your garden all 12 months.

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Golden Mop False Cypress

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'

Dwarf Golden Mop False Cypress has Outstanding Color