Contorted Hinoki False Cypress

Name: Contorted Hinoki False Cypress
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 22106
Price: 132.37 USD
Availability: InStock

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta'

Nature Hills Nursery

$132³⁷

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In Stock

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Find your Growing Zone

Plant Size

#3 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This evergreen performs best in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct light to maintain its tight, twisted foliage. While it can handle partial shade, the unique contorted form may become loose and open if it reaches for more light.
Soil: It thrives in moist, well drained soil that is slightly acidic. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a raised mound to prevent the roots from sitting in water, which can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide deep watering twice a week to ensure the root system establishes properly. Once mature, this cypress is moderately drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during hot spells can cause the inner needles to brown and drop prematurely.

Pruning Tips

Since this slow growing conifer produces new growth at the tips of its branches, you should only prune to remove dead wood or to slightly shape the plant in early spring. Avoid cutting back into old wood that has no green needles, as it will not regenerate and you may leave a permanent hole in the architecture.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release evergreen fertilizer once in early spring before new growth emerges to support healthy color. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers in late summer because this encourages tender new growth that will likely be damaged by the first hard frost of winter.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

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.

Contorted Hinoki False Cypress: A Sculptural Masterpiece

Twisting, spiraling foliage with year-round elegance gives your garden an artistic, one-of-a-kind touch! The Contorted Hinoki False Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta') is a stunning evergreen shrub with whimsical, twisting branches and rich green foliage. Unlike traditional False Cypress, this unique specimen boasts naturally curving, spiraled limbs, adding movement, soft-to-the-touch texture, and visual interest to any landscape.

This slow-growing, compact Conifer maintains its dense, deep green foliage year-round, making it a low-maintenance but high-impact choice for gardeners who love distinctive, sculptural plants.

Key Benefits of Contorted Hinoki False Cypress

If you're looking for an eye-catching, easy-care evergreen with a unique twist, this ornamental conifer is the perfect choice!

Whether used as a standout focal point, a striking foundation shrub, or a sculpted container plant, the Contorted Hinoki Cypress brings elegance, character, and architectural beauty to any setting.

The Contorted Hinoki False Cypress is a true statement piece, offering artistic beauty, year-round greenery, and effortless care. Order today and transform your garden with this captivating evergreen!

Sculptural, Twisting Branches: Naturally curved and contorted limbs create an artistic, architectural shape.
Evergreen & Year-Round Beauty: Keeps its dense, glossy green foliage in every season, offering lasting structure and color.
Compact & Manageable Size: Reaches 4-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, making it ideal for small gardens and container plantings.
Low Maintenance & Slow Growing: Grows at a moderate pace with minimal pruning needed, maintaining its natural form effortlessly.
Cold Hardy & Adaptable: Thrives in USDA Zones 4-8, handling cold winters and warm summers with ease.
Deer & Pest Resistant: Naturally unappealing to deer, rabbits, and most common pests, ensuring year-round resilience.

Where To Plant Contorted Hinoki False Cypress

This versatile, elegant Conifer adds structure, texture, and movement to any garden, making it perfect for both classic and modern landscapes.

Specimen Planting & Focal Points ? A natural work of art, perfect for entryways, garden islands, and rock gardens.
Foundation Plantings: Adds architectural appeal near homes, patios, and walkways.
Japanese & Zen Gardens: Complement tranquil, meditative landscapes with their sculptural shape.
Xeric-Landscaping & Dry Landscapes: Thrives in rocky, well-draining soils, adding texture and contrast.
Containers & Courtyards: Compact size and slow growth make it a perfect patio or container plant.
Evergreen Borders & Hedges: Works well in mixed plantings, adding a dynamic, twisting contrast among straight-growing shrubs.

Care & Maintenance

This long-lived, naturally elegant evergreen thrives with minimal care, making it a hassle-free addition to any landscape.

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; thrives in at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil; tolerates sandy and loamy soils.
Watering: Water regularly when young; once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant.
Mulching: A 3-4 inch mulch layer helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Only trim dead or wayward branches to enhance shape.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring for optimal growth.

Whimsical Elegance - Contorted Hinoki False Cypress!

With its sinuous, twisting limbs, deep green evergreen foliage, and effortless maintenance, Contorted Hinoki False Cypress is a standout choice for gardeners looking to add unique, sculptural beauty to their landscapes. This unusual and elegant conifer delivers unmatched visual interest.

Order yours today online at Nature Hills Nursery and add a living work of art to your garden!

Botanical Name

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta'
Class
- Pinopsida
Species

obtusa
Cultivar

Contorta
Growing Zones

5-8
Height

6-10 ft
Width

4-6 ft
Sunlight
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Growth Rate

Slow
Flower Color
- Brown
- Green
Leaf Color
- Green
Fall Color

Evergreen
Fragrant

Yes
Bloom Period

Late Spring
Does Not Ship To

AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 5-8

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Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Contorted Hinoki False Cypress grow?

Contorted Hinoki False Cypress is a slow-growing evergreen that reaches 4-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide at maturity. This compact conifer grows at a moderate pace, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its natural sculptural form. Expect gradual growth that makes it perfect for small spaces and containers.

What are the planting and care requirements for Contorted Hinoki False Cypress?

The Contorted Hinoki False Cypress thrives in USDA Zones 4-8 and prefers well-draining soil with partial to full sun exposure. This slow-growing evergreen needs minimal care once established, requiring only occasional watering and virtually no pruning to maintain its natural sculptural form. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy, nursery-quality specimens.

Is Contorted Hinoki False Cypress deer-resistant?

Yes, Contorted Hinoki False Cypress is naturally deer-resistant and also repels rabbits and most common pests. The plant's foliage and scent make it unappealing to browsing animals. Plant it confidently in areas where deer pressure is a concern.

Is Contorted Hinoki False Cypress cold hardy in zone 4?

Yes, Contorted Hinoki False Cypress is cold hardy in zone 4. This adaptable evergreen thrives in USDA zones 4-8, handling cold winters with ease while maintaining its sculptural form and dense green foliage year-round. Plant in well-draining soil for best winter performance.

What is the return policy if my Contorted Hinoki False Cypress arrives damaged?

Nature Hills stands behind every plant with a satisfaction guarantee for damage during shipping. If your Contorted Hinoki False Cypress arrives damaged, contact customer service immediately with photos for a prompt replacement or refund. Shop with confidence at naturehills.com knowing your investment in this sculptural evergreen is protected.