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Golden Hinoki False Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Crippsii'

  • Hardy in zones 4-8 with excellent cold tolerance and adaptability to various garden conditions
  • Brilliant golden foliage brightens to rich gold in full sun and holds vibrant color through winter
  • Slow-growing pyramidal form reaches 10-15 feet tall over many years, ideal for smaller gardens and foundation plantings
  • Deer-resistant evergreen requires minimal maintenance once established with no pruning or shearing needed

Regular price $9158
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Fast, Safe Plant Delivery
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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Plant Profile & Growing Essentials

Cold hardy, Evergreen, Compact/Dwarf, Low Maintenance, Deer-resistant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Hedge/Screen, and Container Friendly

  • Botanical Name
    Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Crippsii'
  • Height
    8-10 ft
  • Width
    5-8 ft
  • Growing Zones
    4-8
  • Sunlight
    • Full sun
    • Partial shade
  • Growth Rate
    Slow
  • Leaf Color
    • Green
    • Yellow
    • Gold
  • Bloom Period
    Late Spring
  • Does Not Ship To
    AK, CA, HI, ID, MT

Golden Hinoki False Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Crippsii') transforms ordinary garden spaces into year-round showcases with foliage that glows like captured sunshine. This slow-growing Japanese evergreen, also called Cripps Golden Cypress, offers gardeners the rare combination of brilliant color, compact size, and four-season interest without the maintenance demands of many golden conifers.

Year-Round Golden Color

The fan-like sprays of scale-like foliage emerge bright gold in spring and intensify to rich, burnished gold through summer when given full sun. Unlike many golden conifers that fade to chartreuse by midsummer, 'Crippsii' holds its vibrant color straight through fall and winter. The foliage takes on subtle bronze undertones in cold weather, adding depth and richness to winter landscapes. This color consistency makes it invaluable for creating focal points that perform reliably through every season.

Perfect Scale for Residential Gardens

The slow growth rate (typically 3-6 inches per year) means this conifer fits comfortably in spaces where larger evergreens would quickly outgrow their spot. Over 15-20 years, expect a naturally pyramidal specimen 10-15 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide. The tiered branching creates an elegant, layered silhouette that looks refined without any pruning or shearing. This manageable size makes Golden Hinoki Cypress ideal for foundation plantings, mixed borders, and even large containers on patios.

Landscape Versatility

Use this evergreen as a bright accent against darker foliage to create dramatic contrast in mixed plantings. The golden color provides an excellent backdrop for flowering shrubs like hydrangeas or roses, making their blooms appear even more vibrant. Plant in groups of three or more for a stunning hedge that offers privacy with personality. In smaller gardens, a single specimen placed near an entryway or patio becomes an instant focal point that looks intentional and polished year-round.

Low-Maintenance Appeal

Once established, Golden Hinoki Cypress asks for little beyond occasional watering during drought. The naturally compact form means no shearing to maintain shape, and the dense branching habit prevents weeds underneath. Deer typically avoid browsing the aromatic foliage, making this conifer reliable in areas with heavy deer pressure. The slow growth that makes it perfect for tight spaces also means you'll spend years enjoying the plant instead of battling to keep it in bounds.

Golden Hinoki False Cypress brings the elegance of Japanese garden design into American landscapes without the fuss. Whether you're building a foundation planting, adding structure to a perennial border, or simply want a golden beacon that performs beautifully through every season, 'Crippsii' delivers consistent beauty with remarkably little effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Golden Hinoki Cypress grow?

  • This is a slow-growing conifer, typically adding only 3-6 inches of new growth per year. It will take 15-20 years to reach its mature height of 10-15 feet, making it perfect for smaller gardens where faster-growing evergreens would quickly outgrow their space.

Will the golden color fade in summer?

  • No, Golden Hinoki Cypress holds its vibrant gold color remarkably well through summer heat, especially in full sun. Plants in partial shade develop more yellow-green foliage rather than rich gold, but the color remains consistent through the growing season.

Does Golden Hinoki Cypress need to be pruned or shaped?

  • No regular pruning is needed. The plant naturally grows into a compact pyramidal shape with layered branching. You can remove dead or damaged branches in late winter if needed, but avoid heavy shearing which destroys the natural form.

Can I grow Golden Hinoki Cypress in a container?

  • Yes, the slow growth rate and compact size make this conifer excellent for large containers on patios or entryways. Use a well-draining potting mix and water consistently since container plants dry out faster than those in the ground. Protect containers in harsh winters by moving to a sheltered location.

What should I plant with Golden Hinoki Cypress?

  • The golden foliage creates stunning contrast with purple-leaved plants like Purple Palace Heuchera or Diabolo Ninebark. It also provides an excellent backdrop for blue or purple flowering perennials like Salvia or Russian Sage. For a low-maintenance combination, pair with other evergreens in contrasting colors and textures.

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