False Cypress
While the species are all large trees, each is available in a variety of dwarf cultivars that can be used as coniferous evergreen shrubs. Many Chamaecyparis are primarily adapted to moderate and moist coastal climates, while a few perform well in the harsher conditions of the Midwest. Care should be taken to match the selection to the climate.
With evergreen foliage similar to the juvenile leaves of junipers, cultivars vary in foliage color—bright yellows, deep greens, grays, and blues—and habit—from tiny, inches-high tufts to open, picturesque, small trees.
Transplant false cypress into rich, well-drained soil in the spring. Give it full sun in moist, mild climates, and light shade elsewhere. Pruning to control form is best accomplished just before the new foliage emerges in the spring. Most forms have a tendency to die out in the center and lose their lower branches with age. A strong jet of water is the easiest way to remove this foliage. Protect all Chamaecyparis from hot, drying winds.
Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (Lawson False Cypress; press; Zones 6 to 8 ) is best adapted to coastal, moist climates, and is not suitable for midwestern conditions. Root rot is a Significant problem in this species on the West Coast. Yellow-leafed varieties are particularly susceptible to burn by hot sun and drying winds.
Chamaecyparis obtusa (Hinoki False Cypress; Zones 5 to 8 ) tolerates neutral soils somewhat better than other false cypresses, and is probably the best choice for midwestern conditions. It is available in a wide variety of dwarf forms.
Chamaecyparis pisifera (Japanese False Cypress; Zones 4 to 8 ) is the hardiest of the false cypresses, presses, but is notorious for losing its inner and lower foliage with age. It distinctly prefers acid soil.
