Cryptomeria japonica ‘Radicans’, commonly known as Radicans Cryptomeria or Japanese Cedar, is a fast-growing evergreen valued for its soft, feathery blue-green foliage and elegant, columnar to conical form. This non-native conifer typically grows 30 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide, making it a popular choice for tall screens, windbreaks, and specimen plantings in spacious landscapes.

Compared to the straight species, ‘Radicans’ has a looser, more graceful texture and improved performance in colder climates, with better resistance to winter browning. Its fine foliage creates a softer visual effect than many dense evergreens, offering year-round structure without a heavy appearance.

Radicans Cryptomeria grows best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and performs reliably in heat and humidity. While highly ornamental, it provides limited ecological value compared to native evergreen species.

Why choose Radicans Cryptomeria

Fast-growing screen: Reaches height quickly for privacy and wind protection
Soft evergreen texture: Feathery foliage adds refined, year-round structure
Low maintenance: Minimal pruning and good disease resistance

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun
Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; avoid prolonged saturation
Maintenance: Low—prune only to shape or manage size if needed

Designs for your garden

Evergreen screening: Ideal for tall privacy screens and backdrops
Specimen planting: Elegant focal point in large landscapes
Mixed borders: Adds height and texture among shrubs and conifers

Ecological benefits

Evergreen structure: Provides visual screening year-round
Low-input tree: Performs well with minimal care once established
Ornamental value: Chosen primarily for form and texture

Looking for Native Alternatives?

Juniperus virginiana – Eastern Red Cedar: A native evergreen with an upright habit and excellent tolerance of varied soils. It provides strong screening value and meaningful wildlife support.

Thuja occidentalis ‘Elegantissima’ – Elegantissima Arborvitae: A native evergreen arborvitae with dense growth and a refined habit. It works well for privacy screens and formal landscape plantings.

Chamaecyparis Thyoides – Atlantic Cedar: A native evergreen conifer with a narrow, upright form and soft foliage. It performs best in moist, acidic soils and naturalized landscapes.

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.