Slow-growing evergreen holds its own against elements

In case you haven’t noticed, this spring really is taking its time getting going. And when there isn’t much going on in the landscape, gardeners appreciate plants that provide a little spring color.

Not only does today’s featured plant win the prize for its long scientific name but also for having a confusing name. Chamaecyparis (kam-e-SIP-a-ris) means “low-growing cypress.” While this shrub is a member of the cypress family, it is not a true cypress. Pisifera (pie-SIF-er-a) means “pea bearing,” which refers to the pea-sized cones that develop at the branch tips. Filifera (fie-LIF-er-a) translates into “threadleaf.”

To add to the confusion, this plant has multiple common names: Dwarf gold thread cypress, golden threadleaf falsecypress and gold thread Sawara cypress. If that doesn’t confuse the issue, I don’t know what does. However, this shrub certainly deserves a closer look.

This slow-growing evergreen has long, pendulous branches that give it a graceful appearance. The golden foliage makes it an excellent specimen or focal point in the landscape. It would also make an attractive addition to a rock garden and often is used for bonsai. The best foliage color can be achieved by growing it in full sun, in an area that is out of the wind and protected from intense afternoon sun.

Native to Japan, this shrub ranges from 3 to 6 feet in height and can spread to about 6 feet. It prefers soils with a neutral to acidic pH but is tolerant of all types. It does best in moist, well-drained soil. Because the Inland Northwest has hot summers, soil moisture should be monitored closely. Take care to not overwater the plant because the roots will not tolerate excessive moisture.

Dwarf gold thread cypress tends to grow in a conical shape but will have a more mounding habit if the central leader is removed when the shrub is young. Other dwarf cultivars with golden foliage are gold spangle and golden mop.