The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Lawson false cypress

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Ellwoodii’

kam-ah-SIP-ar-iss law-so-nee-AY-nah

This plant has a cypress-like, densely conical form with erect feathery branches of ovate blue-gray juvenile leaves. Oblong male cones emerge bluish black, opening brick red. Female cones are wrinkled and reddish brown, to one half-inch. A native of western North America, it is a very popular species since it is highly adaptable.

CareThrives in moist, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil in full sun. Prune dead branches if needed, but do not cut into old wood.

PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings in late summer. Dwarf cultivars should be grafted in late winter or spring.

ProblemsSpruce mite, twig blight, root rot, needle blights.

  • Genus : Chamaecyparis
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium to Wet
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage
  • Growth Rate : Slow
  • Plant Type : Trees
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Winter Interest

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide