Description
Chamaecyparis Ob. Rigid Dwarf is a compact, slow-growing selection of Hinoki cypress noted for its tidy, upright-rounded habit and richly textured, fan-shaped sprays of deep green foliage. The branchlets layer into neat, sculptural pads that hold color beautifully through winter, adding year‑round structure and a refined, architectural presence to beds, borders, and containers. With its naturally dense framework and minimal pruning needs, this dwarf conifer is an excellent choice for small gardens and refined landscapes.
Suggested Uses
- Small gardens & courtyards
- Rock & alpine gardens
- Foundation & front‑of‑border accents
- Japanese/Zen & conifer gardens
- Containers & patio planters
- Year‑round evergreen structure
- Bonsai training (advanced)
Plant Details
Botanical Name
Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Rigid Dwarf’
Common Name
Chamaecyparis Ob. Rigid Dwarf (Hinoki cypress)
Size & Growth
Typically 2–3 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide in 10 years; ultimately 3–5 ft over time. Compact, upright‑rounded habit.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5–8 (shelter from drying winter winds in colder areas).
Foliage Type
Evergreen; dense, fan‑shaped sprays with scale‑like foliage, deep lustrous green year‑round.
Bloom Time
Inconspicuous (conifer); pollen and seed cones form in spring, not grown for flowers.
Growth Rate
Slow; usually 1–3 inches (2.5–7.5 cm) per year under average garden conditions.
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hot summer regions to prevent scorch.
Attracts Pollinators
No — wind‑pollinated conifer; not a nectar or pollen plant for insects.
Indoor Friendly
Not suitable as a houseplant; best grown outdoors year‑round within its hardiness range.
Container Friendly
Yes — excellent for patio pots and troughs with sharp drainage; repot gradually as it grows.
Deer Resistant
Generally deer‑resistant; browse is uncommon compared to many ornamentals.
Pet Warning
Not known to be toxic to cats/dogs; ingestion of plant material may cause mild GI upset.
Fragrant
Subtle resinous, woody aroma when foliage is rubbed or crushed.
Cut Flower
Evergreen sprays are useful as long‑lasting greenery in floral and winter arrangements.
Grows Well With
Japanese maple, heuchera, hosta, ferns, hellebores, heather, dwarf conifers, and small grasses.
Care Tips
Planting Instructions
Plant in spring or early fall. Dig a hole 2× the width of the root ball and the same depth. Set with the root flare at soil level, backfill with native soil amended with compost where needed, and water in thoroughly. Space to allow mature width.
Soil Moisture
Keep evenly moist but never soggy, especially the first 1–2 years. Mulch 2–3 in (5–7.5 cm) deep, keeping mulch a couple of inches away from the trunk.
Soil Type
Well‑drained loam or sandy loam; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0). Improve heavy clay with compost and grit to enhance drainage.
Humidity
Average outdoor humidity is fine. Provide good air flow and avoid reflected heat and desiccating winds, especially in containers.
Pruning Instructions
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or wayward twigs in late winter. Light tip‑pinching after spring flush can refine shape. Do not cut back into old brown wood; it won’t resprout.
Winter Care
Water deeply before the ground freezes and maintain mulch. In exposed sites, protect from harsh winter winds. Container plants benefit from wrapping the pot or moving to a sheltered location.
Planting Depth
Set crown at the same depth as it was in the nursery container; keep the root flare at or just above finished grade for best drainage and oxygen exchange.
Fertilization
Light feeder. Apply a slow‑release, balanced fertilizer (or conifer‑specific) in early spring. Avoid high‑nitrogen and late‑season feeding. Container plants can receive a dilute liquid feed a few times in spring/summer.
Special Care
Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Rotate containers quarterly for even growth. Monitor for spider mites or scale in heat/drought and manage early.
Note: Cultural needs may vary slightly by site and climate. The above represents typical guidance for dwarf Hinoki cypress selections.