Description

Cryptomeria Jap. Elegans Nana is a compact, slow-growing selection of Japanese cedar prized for its soft, feathery juvenile foliage and naturally dense, rounded-to-conical habit. Fresh spring growth emerges a rich medium green and transforms to striking bronze-purple in winter, delivering multi-season color with minimal care. Its fine texture and tidy proportions make it a standout specimen for small gardens, foundation plantings, and containers. Tough and adaptable, it prefers evenly moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils and protection from drying winds in colder climates.

Suggested Uses

Versatile and compact—ideal for curated landscapes and intimate spaces.

Large Containers & Patios Year-Round Structure Rock & Zen Gardens Foundation & Entryways Mixed Shrub Borders Winter Interest Plantings

Plant Details

Key attributes to help you place and grow this plant successfully.

• Botanical NameCryptomeria Jap. Elegans Nana (Cryptomeria japonica ‘Elegans Nana’)
• Common NameCryptomeria Jap. Elegans Nana; Dwarf Japanese Cedar ‘Elegans Nana’
• Size & GrowthTypically 4–6 ft tall and 3–5 ft wide in 10 years; may reach 8–10+ ft over many decades. Dense, rounded to pyramidal habit; soft, plume-like sprays.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 6–9; protect from drying winter winds in colder sites.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen; feathery juvenile foliage, soft to the touch; bronzes to purple in winter, returning green in spring.
• Bloom TimeNon-flowering conifer; produces inconspicuous cones (not ornamental).
• Growth RateSlow to moderate; about 3–6 inches (7–15 cm) per year with good care.
• Light RequirementsFull sun to part shade; in hotter climates (Zones 8–9), provide afternoon shade for best color and vigor.
• Attracts PollinatorsNot notable; wind-pollinated, does not attract pollinators for nectar.
• Indoor FriendlyNot recommended as a houseplant; best grown outdoors in natural conditions.
• Container FriendlyYes; excellent in large containers with good drainage; repot or root-prune every 2–3 years.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer resistant once established; browsing is uncommon.
• Pet WarningGenerally considered non-toxic; ingestion of foliage may cause mild stomach upset. Sap may irritate sensitive skin—discourage chewing.
• FragrantFoliage has a fresh, resinous scent when crushed; not strongly fragrant in the landscape.
• Cut FlowerUseful as long-lasting cut greens in arrangements and holiday décor (not for blooms).
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Azalea, Rhododendron, Camellia, Pieris, Japanese Maple, Hosta, Ferns, Heuchera, Nandina, Hydrangea, and other dwarf conifers.

Care Tips

Practical guidance for planting and long-term success.

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or early fall. Dig a hole 2–3× the width of the root ball and no deeper; set the root flare level with or slightly above soil grade. Backfill with native soil blended with compost, water to settle, and mulch 2–3 inches deep, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist during the first 1–2 growing seasons. Avoid soggy soils; water deeply, then allow the top inch to dry. More drought-tolerant once established.
• Soil TypeWell-drained loam or sandy loam; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~5.5–6.8). Amend heavy clay with compost and grit to improve drainage.
• HumidityPrefers moderate humidity; shelter from drying winter winds and hot, reflected heat. Mulch helps conserve soil moisture.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning required. Lightly shape or tip-prune in late winter to early spring. Avoid cutting back into leafless older wood; remove dead or congested interior twigs as needed.
• Winter CareHardy in Zones 6–9. Winter bronzing is normal. Apply 2–3 inches of mulch after the ground cools, water deeply before freeze-up, and provide wind protection in exposed sites.
• Planting DepthSet the top of the root ball level with, or up to 1 inch above, the surrounding soil to prevent settling and waterlogging at the crown.
• FertilizationIn early spring, apply a slow-release, balanced or acid-forming evergreen fertilizer per label rates, or top-dress with compost. Avoid high-nitrogen spikes in midsummer.
• Special CareBest color with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot regions. Avoid alkaline soils; monitor for spider mites in hot, dry spells. In containers, ensure excellent drainage and rotate periodically for even light.

Tip: Some bronzing in winter is a hallmark of the Elegans group—expect it and enjoy the seasonal shift.