Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Gracilis’, commonly known as Hinoki Cypress, is an elegant, slow-growing evergreen with graceful, upward-sweeping branches and rich, deep green foliage. This cultivar of the Japanese Hinoki Cypress grows in a narrow pyramidal form, typically reaching 10 to 20 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, making it ideal for specimen plantings, formal gardens, and foundation borders. Its refined texture and year-round color make it a landscape favorite, but as a non-native conifer, it provides minimal habitat or food value for native wildlife.

Why choose Hinoki Cypress ‘Gracilis’:

• Elegant evergreen: Soft, fan-shaped foliage and pyramidal shape add refined structure

• Year-round interest: Retains deep green color through all seasons

• Low-maintenance: Requires little pruning and is resistant to deer and disease

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Best in full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils

• Maintenance: Minimal; prune only to shape or remove interior dieback

Designs for your garden:

• Specimen planting: Makes a striking focal point with sculptural form

• Formal landscapes: Perfect for structured designs and evergreen borders

• Foundation planting: Adds texture and height near buildings or patios

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native species: Offers little value to native insects or birds

• Not a host plant: Does not support pollinators or native caterpillars

• Combine with natives: Use with native shrubs and perennials for biodiversity

Looking for native alternatives?

Juniperus virginiana – Eastern Red Cedar: A tall native evergreen with blue-green foliage and berries that support birds and pollinators.
Ilex opaca – American Holly: A broadleaf native evergreen with red berries and excellent year-round structure and wildlife value.
Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’ – Shamrock Inkberry: A compact native evergreen shrub with glossy leaves, suitable for borders and hedging.