Cryptomeria Yoshino (Cryptomeria japonica ‘Yoshino’) forms a refined, narrow pyramidal outline cloaked in soft, awl‑like sprays of blue‑green needles that can take on a bronze cast in winter cold. Vigorous yet graceful, it quickly develops into an excellent year‑round backdrop or focal evergreen with notably dense branching that provides privacy and wind protection.

Best sited in full sun with shelter from the harshest winter winds in colder regions. Consistent moisture and acidic, well‑drained soil help maintain rich color and tight form.

Suggested Uses

• Privacy screen / hedge
• Windbreak
• Specimen tree
• Backbone planting
• Foundation boundary
• Asian / Japanese gardens
• Noise & dust buffer
• Evergreen structure for mixed borders

Plant Details

• Botanical NameCryptomeria japonica ‘Yoshino’ (Yoshino Japanese Cedar)
• Common NameCryptomeria Yoshino; Yoshino Japanese Cedar
• Size & Growth30–40 ft tall, 15–20 ft wide; narrow pyramidal; 2–3 ft/year when young under good conditions
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 6–9 (may bronze in winter cold; protect from drying winds in Zone 6)
• Foliage TypeEvergreen conifer; soft, awl‑like sprays; blue‑green summer color with possible bronze tint in winter
• Bloom TimeNon‑flowering; inconspicuous pollen cones late winter to spring
• Growth RateFast
• Light RequirementsFull sun to part shade; 6+ hours of direct sun yields best density and form
• Attracts PollinatorsNo – wind‑pollinated conifer; cones are not nectar sources
• Indoor FriendlyNot suitable for long‑term indoor growing
• Container FriendlyYes, when young in very large containers (short‑term); plant out for long‑term growth
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer resistant; not a preferred browse
• Pet WarningNon‑toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of needles may cause mild stomach upset
• FragrantFoliage and bark mildly aromatic when crushed; wood is pleasantly scented
• Cut FlowerEvergreen boughs useful in winter and holiday arrangements; long‑lasting cut greens
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Azalea, Camellia, Pieris, Rhododendron, Mahonia, Fothergilla, Hydrangea macrophylla, Hellebores, Ferns

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× wider than the root ball and no deeper. Set the trunk flare at or just above grade, tease circling roots, backfill with native soil, then water deeply; mulch 2–3 in, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Soil MoistureEvenly moist during establishment; deep water weekly in the first 1–2 years. Once established, moderate drought tolerance but prefers consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged sites.
• Soil TypeAcidic, well‑drained loam (ideal pH 5.0–6.5). Improve drainage in heavy clay with organic matter; do not plant in standing water.
• HumidityPerforms very well in humid climates; in dry winter winds (Zone 6), provide wind protection to reduce desiccation.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. Remove dead/damaged wood any time. For hedges, lightly shear in late winter or after spring flush; avoid cutting into old, leafless wood. Maintain a single leader on young trees.
• Winter CareWater deeply before ground freezes; maintain mulch. Expect some bronze tinting in cold spells. Shelter from road salt spray and strong winter winds in colder zones.
• Planting DepthSet the root flare at or 1–2 in above surrounding soil. Do not bury the trunk; backfill to the top of the root ball only.
• FertilizationIn early spring, apply a slow‑release, acid‑forming evergreen fertilizer per soil test (e.g., 10‑8‑6). Avoid high‑nitrogen feeding after midsummer.
• Special CareStake young trees in windy sites; space 8–12 ft apart for screens (closer for faster privacy). Monitor for spider mites in hot, dry weather; ensure good air flow and avoid chronic overwatering.

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