Chamaecyparis pisifera Lieve - Sawara Cypress

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Lieve', also known as Sawara Cypress, is a mutation of C. pisifera 'Squarrosa Sulphurea'. This dwarf conifer has a more compact rounded conical habit and ever-changing foliage that is equally beautiful. In spring, the leaves are silver-grey, turning pale-yellow in summer, and soft grey-green with silver highlights in winter. Slow-growing, it gradually forms a small bushy shrub with countless small sharp needles. While perfect for rock gardens and filling small spaces, this conifer also adapts well to container cultivation. It prefers a semi-shaded exposure, in rather moist but well-drained and humus-rich soil.

Chamaecyparis pisifera is a robust Japanese species belonging to the Cupressaceae family, which can reach 45m (148ft) in its natural habitat. It is primarily used for its durable lemon-yellow wood, in the production of lacquered furniture and for the construction of numerous buildings such as palaces in its country of origin. It has given rise to numerous cultivars, classified into four groups: 'Plumosa', 'Squarrosa', 'Filifera', and 'Nana'.

The 'Squarrosa Lieve' variety was obtained in Europe in 2004. After many years, it will form a small pyramid with a rounded and dense habit, measuring about 60cm (24in) in height, and 40 to 60cm (16 to 24in) in width, although further observation is needed to determine the final size of this variety. Its closely packed brick-coloured branches are quite flexible, slightly ruffled, and covered with needle-like foliage that changes colour and highlights throughout the seasons. The juvenile leaves are needle-like (linear, rigid, and pointed), while the adult leaves are scale-like and pointed, and darker in colour. Its barely visible bark is dark red and fibrous in appearance. The plants are either male or female; fruiting is rare and of little ornamental interest.

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Lieve' will be appreciated in gardens for its wonderfully delicate ever-changing foliage and its beautiful presence. It is ideal for rock gardens, and will make a statement in a large pot on a terrace or balcony. With its slow growth and naturally dense silhouette that requires no pruning, it pairs well with varieties with cushion, columnar, pyramidal, or narrow conical habits, and other evergreen plants such as mahonias or autumn camellias. The architectural qualities of dwarf conifers naturally stand out in the design of a contemporary garden. With their reassuring permanence, these plants structurally anchor a flower bed. They mark pathways and border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood or holly. The key is to play with volumes and colours.