Chamaecyparis obtusa Contorta - Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta' is an extraordinary dwarf variety of Japanese Hinoki cypress with very slow growth. It forms a small contorted pyramid, with twisted branches covered with short needles grouped in irregular masses. Its foliage is a rich green in spring and summer, turning bronze in winter. Ideal in a rock garden, in a pot on a terrace, or in a small garden. It prefers full sun or partial shade, in acidic (non-limestone), moist but well-drained soil.

Reaching up to 50m (164ft) in height in its natural environment, the False cypress or Japanese false cypress is mainly used for making lacquered furniture and for the construction of numerous buildings such as palaces. This conifer belongs to the Cupressaceae family.

'Contorta' is distinguished by its small size and by its irregular, variable, unpredictable and twisted conical habit. It grows slowly: after ten years of cultivation, it will reach 50cm (20in) in height, with a diameter of 30cm (12in). An adult plant will measure about 2m (7ft) in height and 1m (3ft) in width, after an infinite amount of time. It develops sinuous and twisted branches covered with very dense foliage, composed of short needles tightly grouped in balls. Its foliage takes on different shades of green, and turns bronze in cold weather. Bouquets of cones appear along the branches; they persist for a long time and may resemble a deformity or disease, but it is a natural phenomenon. These cones eventually disappear over time, replaced by new shoots.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Contorta' is ideal for container cultivation on a terrace or in small gardens thanks to its unusual appearance, slow growth and small size. It will find its place in a Zen garden and will become a magnificent subject treated in bonsai style. As it prefers acidic soils, it can accompany small camellias, heathers, rhododendrons, and azaleas. The architectural qualities of dwarf conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over the fleeting beauty of flowers. With their reassuring permanence, these plants durably structure a bed. They can mark pathways, and border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood. They serve as a setting for small roses, peonies, or tousled grasses with a very complementary temperament. They can also be planted with shrubs or ground cover plants such as aubrieta and cerastium, as well as flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colours.

Tips: Water during periods of high heat as it is sensitive to drought.