Chamaecyparis obtusa Melody - Hinoki Cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Melody' is a dwarf conifer measuring 1.2 m (3 ft 11 in) in all directions, initially with a conical then rounded habit. It stands out from other cultivars with a gracefully shaped silhouette, thanks to its branches that end in trailing lace and a shiny, two-tone foliage, fluorescent green evolving to creamy yellow at the tips. It is a perfect subject for small gardens, hedges, or to be admired up close when isolated. It will thrive in a rather rich, well-drained, fresh soil and in a sheltered position. As long as there is enough moisture in the soil, this variety resists intense sun very well, unlike other light-coloured foliage plants.

Also known as Hinoki Cypress from Japan and capable of reaching a height of 50 m (164 ft) in its natural environment, the false cypress is mainly used for making lacquered furniture and in the construction of numerous buildings such as palaces. This variety has an uncertain origin, but it is believed to be a mutation of branches from the 'Graciosa' cultivar in the United States. This compact dwarf conifer grows slowly: after 10 years, it will reach a height of 1 m (3 ft 4 in) and a width of 60 cm (23.6 in). Its foliage is even more remarkable as its fringes take on orange-bronze hues in autumn.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Melody' is ideal for container cultivation on a terrace, to bring light to the composition of flower beds and hedges, or in small gardens thanks to its slow growth and small size. With its gentle, natural form without pruning, combined with its strong presence, it will work wonders in your rock gardens in a dry garden style or Japanese garden, alongside other conifers, tall grasses, and evergreen shrubs such as azaleas.

This Chamaecyparis is ideal for container cultivation on a terrace or in small gardens thanks to its slow growth and small size. With its gentle and natural form without pruning, it will work wonders in your rock gardens. The true graphic 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 dance of flowering. These plants, with their reassuring permanence, structurally sustain a flower bed, mark pathways and border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood. They serve as a backdrop for small roses, peonies, or tousled grasses with very complementary temperaments. They can also be combined with shrubs or ground cover plants such as aubrietas and cerastiums, as well as flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colours.

Tips: Water during periods of intense heat as it is susceptible to drought.