Fernspray Gold False Cypress

Light Needs

Part Shade to Full Sun

(3+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

5-7 Feet

Mature Spread

2-4 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Fernspray Gold False Cypress, or Chamaecyparis obt. Fernspray Gold, is a gorgeous, dense evergreen conifer with rich, textured foliage that is golden-yellow to vivid green. The soft, fan-like foliage starts out green with prominent white lines on the undersides of the leaves, then turns coppery orange in the fall. This color stays rich gold even without fading in the summer sun. Its cones are small and round. Reaching heights of 5 to 7 feet tall, Fernspray Gold grows at a moderate pace with an average spread of 2 to 4 feet.

Native to Japan and discovered in New Zealand, the Fernspray Gold False Cypress is a medium-sized, slow and upright growing selection of Hinoki Cypress. It has a thick, pyramidal growth habit and holds its branches horizontally. It attracts critical pollinators and butterflies, and its golden, fern-like branches will add interest to any landscape. They are not deer resistant, but deer are likely to move on to tastier options.

Fernspray Gold False Cypress Care

The Fernspray Gold False Cypress needs full or partial sun to thrive, but can tolerate dappled shade. It needs moderate watering for the first three to five years of growth. After that, they become more drought-tolerant. False Cypress needs well-drained soil that is appropriate for woody plants.

They should be planted in an area protected from extreme cold and wind. No fertilizer should be used until early spring before new growth begins.

Fernspray Gold False Cypress Spacing

The Fernspray Gold should be spaced 4 feet apart center to center. It is fantastic en masse, in a soft golden border or bed, or as a single specimen. It is an excellent fit for a bonsai, rock, or sub-urban garden. They can survive in containers if they receive a cooling period outside in the fall.  

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