Japanese Cedar
Cryptomeria japonica · Evergreen Coniferous Softwood
Plant Family
Cupressaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Conifer / Evergreen Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Yoshino' or 'Radicans' given the dense, symmetrical form
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5-9; prefers climates with high humidity and protection from harsh, drying winter winds.
About This Tree
A stately, large evergreen with a dense, symmetrical, pyramidal to conical form. It features slender, spreading branches and a high crown density. It grows at a moderate to fast rate, forming a majestic silhouette at maturity.
Leaf Characteristics
Small, awl-shaped, needle-like leaves (0.25 to 0.75 inches long) that spiral around the branchlets. Bright green in summer, often bronze-toned in winter; soft to the touch compared to spruce.
Bark Characteristics
Reddish-brown bark that is fibrous and peels in long, vertical strips. It becomes deeply furrowed and more shredded on older trunks.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Japan and southern China; well-adapted to the Pacific Northwest and Southeastern US
Growing Season
Year-round evergreen foliage; flowers in late winter to early spring (February-March); cones mature in autumn; dormant during winter but retains color
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, rich, well-drained soil; requires consistent moisture and does not tolerate prolonged drought well.
Mature Size
Height of 50-60 feet (up to 100+ in native habitat) with a spread of 20-30 feet; growth rate is 1-2 feet per year.
Special Characteristics
High resistance to deer and pests; notable for its uniform shape; prized for timber in Japan; features reddish-bronze winter interest foliage.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides excellent year-round thermal cover and nesting sites for birds; small seeds in globose cones provide food for songbirds and small mammals.