Golden Hinoki False Cypress

Golden Hinoki False Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Crippsii') transforms ordinary garden spaces into year-round showcases with foliage that glows like captured sunshine. This slow-growing Japanese evergreen, also called Cripps Golden Cypress, offers gardeners the rare combination of brilliant color, compact size, and four-season interest without the maintenance demands of many golden conifers.

Year-Round Golden Color

The fan-like sprays of scale-like foliage emerge bright gold in spring and intensify to rich, burnished gold through summer when given full sun. Unlike many golden conifers that fade to chartreuse by midsummer, 'Crippsii' holds its vibrant color straight through fall and winter. The foliage takes on subtle bronze undertones in cold weather, adding depth and richness to winter landscapes. This color consistency makes it invaluable for creating focal points that perform reliably through every season.

Perfect Scale for Residential Gardens

The slow growth rate (typically 3-6 inches per year) means this conifer fits comfortably in spaces where larger evergreens would quickly outgrow their spot. Over 15-20 years, expect a naturally pyramidal specimen 10-15 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide. The tiered branching creates an elegant, layered silhouette that looks refined without any pruning or shearing. This manageable size makes Golden Hinoki Cypress ideal for foundation plantings, mixed borders, and even large containers on patios.

Landscape Versatility

Use this evergreen as a bright accent against darker foliage to create dramatic contrast in mixed plantings. The golden color provides an excellent backdrop for flowering shrubs like hydrangeas or roses, making their blooms appear even more vibrant. Plant in groups of three or more for a stunning hedge that offers privacy with personality. In smaller gardens, a single specimen placed near an entryway or patio becomes an instant focal point that looks intentional and polished year-round.

Low-Maintenance Appeal

Once established, Golden Hinoki Cypress asks for little beyond occasional watering during drought. The naturally compact form means no shearing to maintain shape, and the dense branching habit prevents weeds underneath. Deer typically avoid browsing the aromatic foliage, making this conifer reliable in areas with heavy deer pressure. The slow growth that makes it perfect for tight spaces also means you'll spend years enjoying the plant instead of battling to keep it in bounds.

Golden Hinoki False Cypress brings the elegance of Japanese garden design into American landscapes without the fuss. Whether you're building a foundation planting, adding structure to a perennial border, or simply want a golden beacon that performs beautifully through every season, 'Crippsii' delivers consistent beauty with remarkably little effort.