Chamaecyparis obtusa Baldwin Variegated - Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Baldwin Variegated' is a conifer from the Cupressaceae family. The species Chamaecyparis obtusa is called Hinoki in Japan, its country of origin, which means "fire tree" because it was used in the past to generate flames by rubbing wood. This variety of Japanese Hinoki Cypress offers beautiful variegated white foliage, structured in characteristic small fans. It has slow growth, reaching about 80cm to 1m (32in to 3ft) in height with a slightly smaller width. It adapts to slightly acidic to neutral, moist and well-drained soils. It thrives in sunny or partially shady locations and is frost-resistant, withstanding temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F).

The graceful foliage of 'Baldwin Variegated' is evergreen and heavily variegated with cream white. Some shoots are entirely white, others completely green, and others display a blend of the two colours, giving this variety its unique charm. The foliage shoots are shaped like small shells, fringed at the ends, and arranged irregularly on the plant. This original architecture, combined with its vibrant variegation, easily identifies this conifer.

This slow-growing bush grows about 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) per year. After 10 years, it barely exceeds 50cm (20in) in height, with a width of 40cm (16in). Depending on the specimens, it can have a rather irregular multi-headed form or adopt a more pyramidal shape. As an adult, it will reach 80cm to 1m ( (32in to 3ft), or slightly more.

This dwarf conifer deserves its place in rock gardens, where its variegated foliage will inevitably attract attention. However, in hot regions, care should be taken not to expose it to strong afternoon sun, which can be intensified by the presence of rocks. In such situations, partial shade is more suitable. Elsewhere, it can be exposed to full sun. As with other Hinoki varieties, the planting soil must be well-drained - which is generally the case in a rock garden. The soil should not dry out in summer so occasional watering during the growing season is necessary. It will suit a contemporary garden. Used as a border plant, perennial ground covers will enhance it without risking invasion, such as Creeping Bugle 'Ajuga reptans' or Purple Gooseleaf 'Acaena inermis Purpurea' with their finely cut magnificent foliage and warm colours that will echo the beautiful variegation of our little conifer. It is also ideal for container cultivation on a terrace or even a balcony.

'Baldwin Variegated' is a spontaneous mutation of the well-known Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' discovered in 1966 in Baldwin, a hamlet in the state of New York.