Cryptomeria: Japanese Cedar
Cryptomeria is the national tree of Japan. It can be found planted at many sacred sites and is also planted on a large scale as a forest tree. Only one species exists, Cryptomeria japonica.
Plant care & info
Family: Taxodiaceae
Common Name: Japanese Cedar or Sugi
China and Japan
Prefers full sun to part shade and fertile, moist, well-drained acidic soil.
None serious in PNW.
Evergreen, awl-shaped, and spirally arranged; 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, curving inward toward twig; green (may be bronze or brown in winter), persistent for several years.
Monoecious and appear in spring. Females are round and light green, with loose scales. Males light brown, appearing from leaf axils near branch tips.
Reddish-brown cones are round and 1” across, with numerous sharp pointed scales that give it a spiny appearance.
Moderately stout and green for several years, drooping.
Attractive, vertically peeling in strips, reddish brown.
Trees are upright with a narrow crown, typically one straight trunk and finer, drooping branches. They can reach heights of 1-60’.
It quickly grows into a very large lofty, pyramidal or conical evergreen tree, with red-brown bark which peels in vertical strips. The wood is scented, waterproof, lightweight and strong—making it ideal for use in construction throughout Japan.
Though only one species of Cryptomeria exists, many ornamental varieties are in cultivation and are very suitable to Northwest landscapes. Portland Nursery carries a full selection of miniature to full-size forms to fit perfectly into any garden site.
Cryptomerias are especially interesting because they offer a wide range of color and texture choices. During winter, several varieties have foliage that changes color from green to bronze or burgundy. Cryptomerias lend year round interest and are an excellent addition to the Northwest garden.
