Russian Cypress

Light Needs

Full Shade to Full Sun

(Can Grow In Most Sunlight Conditions)

Mature Height

6-18 Inches

Mature Spread

8-10+ Feet

Growing Zones

2 to 8

Try the Russian cypress for an evergreen groundcover alternative to juniper cultivars. Unlike junipers, the Russian Cypress offers some shade tolerance and the needles turn from a bright green in summer to a darker green before developing a striking bronze-purple tone in fall. The shrub’s foliage is feathery and soft-textured. This plant, known scientifically as Microbiota decussata, is sometimes also called the Siberian cypress or Russian arborvitae.

As an evergreen groundcover, the Russian Cypress is an excellent choice to control erosion on slopes or replace tough-to-mow areas of a yard. With its fall coloration, it makes a striking contrast when planted in combination with other evergreens. It is low maintenance and native to the mountains of southern Siberia. Use it as a groundcover under trees or in rock gardens. It is not attractive to deer and tolerates thin and acidic soils. 

Russian Cypress Care

The Russian cypress can tolerate more shade than most groundcover junipers but still prefers full sun to part shade. The best soil is moist but well-drained. Work ample compost into the site if it is dry or has a high clay content. Spreading a rapidly-decomposing organic mulch around the base of a new planting will encourage establishment. Since the Russian cypress tolerates poor soils well, yearly fertilization is not required. Plan to water weekly during establishment and during extended drought in following years.

The Russian cypress generally needs no pruning to maintain an attractive form. However, it can be pruned if desired, as this plant is often a solid addition to Asian-inspired gardens. Perform any major annual pruning in early spring before the plant begins to green up. Snip off branch tips to shape the plant and  encourage bushier growth. 

Russian Cypress Spacing

This dwarf ground cover grows no more than about a foot tall but slowly achieves a spread of up to twelve feet. Space plants about four to six feet apart in a staggered way to create a mass planting or solid ground cover quickly. To keep individual plants looking separate or in a planting with mixed species, give this plant six feet of space all around.