Chamaecyparis nootkatensis Green Arrow - Nootka cypress

The Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Green Arrow' is a variety of Nootka Cypress noted for its appearance. Awarded with an Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society, it develops an extremely narrow habit, resembling an arrow or an exclamation point in the landscape. Its weeping branches, close to the trunk, bear a curtain of blue-green foliage. Majestic and elegant, this fast-growing conifer thrives in sunny or partially shaded areas, preferably in a light, acidic, fertile, and moist soil.

The Chamaecyparis nootkatensis is an elegant conifer from the Cupressaceae family, native to the wet and acidic coastal regions of the northwestern United States. In its natural environment, it often reaches over 30 m in height. It has an upright, conical habit, and its drooping branches form soft curtains adorned with dark green foliage.

The growth of Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Green Arrow' is much more moderate. It forms a mysterious and elegant tree, with a very pendulous habit, reaching between 5 and 11 m in height with a spread of 60 cm to 1.5 m. In good growing conditions, it can grow up to 50 cm per year. It consists of irregular and spreading branches, highly tiered, from which very flexible, strongly pendulous lateral branches emerge. Its foliage is matte, dark green with a hint of blue, slightly lighter in spring. Its small scale-like leaves emit a resinous and aromatic scent when rubbed. Cones appear in March-April at the ends of the branches, maturing the following year. It has a shallow root system that does not tolerate transplanting well, weakens it against strong winds, and makes it challenging to pair with perennials.

The Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Green Arrow' with its exceptional ornamental qualities and ease of cultivation, deserves to be planted more frequently. It thrives in cool, rich, slightly acidic soil, in a sunny to partially shaded location. Majestic and elegant, it can be planted individually or in groups of 3 on a short grass meadow, prominently displayed to enjoy its beautiful silhouette. The true architectural qualities of conifers naturally stand out in the design of a contemporary garden, which values the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over the flurry of blooms. It's all about playing with volumes and colours.