Chamaecyparis obtusa Teddy Bear - Hinoki Cypress

This dwarf variety of Japanese false cypress, named Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Teddy Bear' resembles a large fern. Its habit is unusual and its foliage is fine and dense, composed of pinnate branches, with a beautiful shade of intense green. Rarely seen, it is very ornamental with its twisted silhouette that elegantly fits into flower beds, stands out when planted alone, animates rock gardens, and adapts remarkably well to pot cultivation. A curiosity to discover, easy to grow in moist, but well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade.

Also called Hinoki cypress from Japan reaches up to 50m (164 ft) in height in its natural environment. This small variety, 'Teddy Bear', stands out with a very original habit, both upright and twisted. It grows slowly to form a clump of erect branches, resembling fern fronds. After ten years of cultivation, it will reach 60 to 1m (196 ft 11 in to 3 ft 4 in) in height, with a diameter of 50cm (19.7 in), and then its growth will slow down, with some specimens reaching up to 2m (6 ft 7 in) in height once mature (after 20-30 years). Its irregular vegetation consists of numerous thin branches, pointing upwards and slightly twisted. Its tiny scale-like leaves are arranged flat on the branches, and are a beautiful, intense dark green. 

The Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Teddy Bear' is ideal for pot cultivation on a terrace or in small gardens due to its slow growth and moderate size. It will become a magnificent specimen when planted alone. As it prefers slightly acidic soils, it can accompany small camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas. The true graphic qualities of dwarf conifers naturally stand out in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over flowering plants. This variety will also complement an exotic plant collection in a more exotic garden. These plants, with their reassuring permanence, structurally define a flower bed, mark pathways, border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood. They can be paired with shrubs or ground cover plants such as aubrietas, ceraistes, as well as flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colors.

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