Description

A compact, slow-growing evergreen forming a dense, rounded to broadly conical mound. Foliage is arranged in elegant, flattened sprays with a rich, glossy green that may show lighter tips in spring. Its deliberate growth and naturally neat outline make it an excellent low‑maintenance accent and an enduring backbone for four‑season plantings.

• Year‑round interest
• Slow, compact habit
• Great for containers
• Textural foliage
• Low pruning needs

Suggested Uses

Versatile in modern or classic designs; pairs beautifully with stones, moss, and contrasting foliage.

• Rock and alpine gardens
• Entryway and patio containers
• Japanese & zen-inspired plantings
• Foundation beds and mixed borders
• Conifer collections and specimen accents
• Bonsai training (advanced)

Plant Details

• Botanical NameChamaecyparis Ob. Little Markey (a compact form of Chamaecyparis obtusa)
• Common NameHinoki False Cypress ‘Little Markey’
• Size & GrowthSlow and compact; typically 2–3 ft tall and wide in 10 years, potentially 4–5 ft over the very long term.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 5–8 (shelter from drying winter winds in colder areas).
• Foliage TypeEvergreen conifer; flattened, fan‑shaped sprays with a glossy, rich green tone; fine, layered texture.
• Bloom TimeNot showy; wind‑pollinated conifer with inconspicuous cones in spring rather than true flowers.
• Growth RateSlow; typically 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) per year under good conditions.
• Light RequirementsFull sun to light shade; in hotter climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent foliage stress.
• Attracts PollinatorsLow; conifers are wind‑pollinated and are not a nectar/pollen resource for typical pollinators.
• Indoor FriendlyNot recommended as a houseplant; best outdoors. Can be brought indoors briefly for display in cool, bright conditions.
• Container FriendlyExcellent; thrives in well‑drained containers with consistent moisture and winter root protection in cold zones.
• Deer ResistantModerate; generally unbothered but not deer‑proof where browsing pressure is high.
• Pet WarningGenerally regarded as non‑toxic; ingestion of any plant material may cause mild GI upset. Discourage chewing.
• FragrantFoliage has a pleasant, resinous aroma when touched or lightly crushed.
• Cut FlowerNot a flowering cut; sprigs are useful as long‑lasting greenery in arrangements and winter decor.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Hosta, Heuchera, Japanese maple, dwarf conifers, heathers (Calluna/Erica), ferns, hellebores, and fine‑textured grasses.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or early fall. Loosen the root ball, set so the root flare is at or slightly above grade, and backfill with native soil improved with compost only if soil is very poor. Water to settle and mulch 2–3 inches, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist, especially the first 1–2 years. Avoid waterlogging; do not allow prolonged drought during heat waves.
• Soil TypeWell‑drained loam or sandy loam; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~5.5–7.0). Improve drainage if planting in heavy clay or consider a raised bed.
• HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is fine. Shelter from hot, desiccating winds; mulch helps maintain even soil moisture.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. Lightly shape in late winter or early spring; remove dead or wayward shoots. Avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood, which may not resprout.
• Winter CareWater deeply before ground freeze and maintain mulch. In zone 5 or windy sites, protect from winter burn with a burlap screen the first couple of winters. Container plants should be insulated or overwintered in a protected spot.
• Planting DepthTop of root ball 1–2 inches above surrounding soil to encourage drainage; do not bury the trunk flare.
• FertilizationLight feeder. In early spring, apply a modest dose of slow‑release, balanced fertilizer formulated for evergreens if soil is nutrient‑poor. Avoid late‑summer nitrogen to prevent tender growth before winter.
• Special CareMaintain 2–3 in mulch ring; ensure good air circulation. In containers, use a high‑quality, well‑drained mix; up‑pot every 2–3 years. Monitor for spider mites or scale in hot, dry spells and rinse foliage occasionally to reduce dust and mites.