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Dwarf Japanese Cedar

Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana'

Nature Hills Nursery
  • Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9 for reliable Southern and Coastal performance.
  • Maintains a dense, naturally rounded "dome" habit reaching only 2-4 feet tall without the need for pruning.
  • Features unique color-shifting foliage that transitions from cool blue-green to a warm rusty-red or burgundy in winter.
  • Highly resilient specimen with high resistance to deer, salt, heat, and common pests.
$9274
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: Provide at least 6 hours of direct sun to ensure the densest foliage and best winter color. While it handles partial shade, the plant may lose its tight, mounded habit and look a bit thin in deep shade.
  • Soil: This cedar thrives in moist, slightly acidic soil that drains away quickly. If you have heavy clay, mix in some aged compost or peat moss to improve drainage and prevent the roots from sitting in stagnant water.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, water your cedar deeply once or twice a week to help it build a resilient root system. Mature plants are quite drought resistant, but they still appreciate a thorough soak during long dry spells to prevent the foliage from stressing. Consistent moisture is key to keeping the needles lush and vibrant throughout the heat of summer.

Pruning Tips

This cultivar is a self-grooming plant that naturally maintains its rounded dome shape without any help from you. If you notice a stray branch or minor winter damage, simply snip it back in early spring before the new growth starts. Think of it like a quick tidy-up rather than a structural haircut since the plant looks best in its natural form.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your cedar with a balanced, slow release fertilizer formulated for evergreens in early spring just as the buds begin to swell. Avoid applying high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer or fall because this encourages soft new growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost. A single spring application provides all the nutrients needed for the plant to maintain its slow and steady growth rate.

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 Week of March 2nd
Zone 7-12 Week of February 23rd


Shipping Rates

Ships in 3-4 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

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A Kaleidoscope of Seasonal Color

While most conifers stay static, the 'Globosa Nana' is a living canvas. Throughout the spring and summer, the shrub is clothed in soft, awl-shaped needles of a striking bluish-green. As the temperatures drop, this plant undergoes a dramatic transformation, bronzing into a rich rusty-red or deep burgundy. This winter interest provides a warm, textural contrast against the stark whites and greys of the dormant season, making it a must-have for winter-themed gardens.

Naturally Perfect Form

Growth is slow and deliberate, resulting in a dense, mounded dome that looks like it has been expertly manicured. Reaching a mature height of just 2 to 4 feet, it is the ideal size for modern landscapes where space is at a premium. The fine texture of the foliage and the slightly drooping branchlets create a soft, inviting appearance that begs to be touched, yet the plant is tough enough to resist deer and salt spray.

Versatile Landscape Solutions

The Dwarf Japanese Cedar is a workhorse in the garden. Use it as a structural foundation planting to anchor your home's corners, or mass several together to create a low-maintenance, year-round border. Its compact nature makes it a perfect candidate for large patio containers or as a focal point in a Zen or rock garden. Because it is resistant to most pests and diseases, you can spend less time worrying about your plants and more time enjoying the serene, evergreen beauty they provide.

Growing Zones 5-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Dwarf Japanese Cedar turn brown and die in the winter?
  • No! The rusty-red or bronze color you see in the winter is a natural characteristic of the 'Globosa Nana' cultivar. It is a protective color change and the needles will return to their lush blue-green hue once spring temperatures arrive.

How fast does this shrub grow?
  • This is a slow-growing evergreen. It typically grows only a few inches per year, which is why it maintains its compact shape so well without frequent pruning.

Is 'Globosa Nana' deer resistant?
  • Yes, this plant is considered highly deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for rural areas or neighborhoods where deer browsing is a common problem.

Can I grow this in a container?
  • Absolutely. Because of its slow growth rate and naturally rounded habit, the Dwarf Japanese Cedar performs exceptionally well in large pots on patios or entryways.

Does it need a lot of water?
  • It prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil. While it can handle some drought once it is mature, it should not be allowed to dry out completely for long periods, especially during extreme summer heat.
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