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RedCrocus Cryptomeria japonica 'Spiralis' Live Plant – Corkscrew Japanese Cedar, Narrow Upright Evergreen Conifer, Deer Resistant, Container Friendly, Sun to Part Shade, Zones 6–9 2 Gallon Nursery Pot

RedCrocus Cryptomeria japonica 'Spiralis' Live Plant – Corkscrew Japanese Cedar, Narrow Upright Evergreen Conifer, Deer Resistant, Container Friendly, Sun to Part Shade, Zones 6–9 2 Gallon Nursery Pot

Regular price $180.00 USD
Regular price $234.00 USD Sale price $180.00 USD
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SKU:ber4d77-redcrocus

Pot Size

Cryptomeria Jap. Spiralis

Description

A narrow, upright evergreen conifer with distinctively spiraled, awl-like foliage that wraps around the stems. Bright to deep green through the growing season, the needles often bronze to purple in winter cold. Dense, architectural habit makes a striking specimen; cones are small and inconspicuous. Low maintenance and long-lived when sited in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

Suggested Uses

Specimen or focal point, entryways, narrow screens, foundation accents, Asian/Japanese-inspired gardens, conifer collections, large containers, and mixed borders with acid-loving plants.

Plant Details

  • Botanical Name: Cryptomeria japonica 'Spiralis'
  • Common Name: Corkscrew Japanese Cedar; Japanese Cedar 'Spiralis'
  • Size & Growth: Narrow, upright; 20–30 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide at maturity. Approx. 10-year size 8–12 ft x 3–5 ft. Growth 6–12 in/year (slow to moderate).
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA 6–9
  • Foliage Type: Evergreen conifer; tightly spiraled juvenile needles; winter bronzing in cold climates.
  • Bloom Time: Not showy; wind-pollinated cones form late winter–spring.
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
  • Light Requirements: Full sun to light/part shade; afternoon shade in hot summers improves color and vigor.
  • Attracts Pollinators: No — wind-pollinated conifer
  • Indoor Friendly: Not recommended for long-term indoor growing
  • Container Friendly: Yes — thrives for years in large, well-drained containers; protect roots in winter
  • Deer Resistant: Generally deer resistant
  • Pet Warning: No known toxicity to cats/dogs; ingestion of needles may cause mild GI upset
  • Fragrant: Foliage has a pleasant, resinous aroma when crushed
  • Cut Flower: Excellent as long-lasting cut greenery and for winter arrangements
  • Grows Well With: Japanese maples, azaleas/rhododendrons, heaths and heathers, Pieris, camellias, and dwarf conifers

Care Tips

  • Planting Instructions: Plant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× wider than the rootball, same depth. Tease circling roots; set root flare at/just above soil line. Backfill, water deeply, and mulch 2–3 in, keeping mulch off the trunk. Stake in windy sites if needed.
  • Soil Moisture: Keep evenly moist but not waterlogged during establishment; afterward, deep-water during dry spells. Avoid prolonged drought or saturated soils.
  • Soil Type: Well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil (ideal pH 5.5–6.5). Improve heavy clay with organic matter or plant in raised beds; avoid alkaline, compacted sites.
  • Humidity: Tolerates humidity; ensure good airflow. In hot, dry weather, maintain soil moisture and mulch to reduce stress and spider mites.
  • Pruning Instructions: Minimal pruning required. Late winter to early spring, remove dead/damaged branches and lightly tip-prune to shape. Do not cut back into old, leafless wood.
  • Winter Care: Mulch in late fall and water well before the ground freezes. Protect from drying winter winds; container plants should be insulated or overwintered in a sheltered spot.
  • Planting Depth: Set at the same depth as in the nursery pot; keep the crown/root flare visible. For B&B plants, remove/peel back top burlap and wire from the rootball.
  • Fertilization: Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release, acid-forming evergreen fertilizer per label directions. Avoid late-summer fertilizing.
  • Special Care: Maintain consistent moisture in hot weather and avoid reflected heat. Monitor for spider mites or bagworms. Keep away from road salt and poorly drained areas.
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