Description
Why you'll love it
Chamaecyparis Pis. Baby Blue is a dwarf selection prized for its dense, finely textured, blue to blue-green foliage that holds color beautifully through the seasons. Its naturally conical, upright habit stays neat with minimal trimming, making it an easy, architectural accent for foundation plantings, borders, and containers. Slow, steady growth and a graceful outline lend four-season interest without overwhelming smaller spaces.
Suggested Uses
Landscape ideas
- Focal point in small gardens or foundation beds
- Mixed conifer borders for color and texture contrast
- Accent plant flanking entries or pathways
- Year-round structure in rock gardens
- Patio or terrace statement in large containers
- Winter interest paired with heaths and heathers
- Mixed conifer borders for color and texture contrast
- Accent plant flanking entries or pathways
- Year-round structure in rock gardens
- Patio or terrace statement in large containers
- Winter interest paired with heaths and heathers
Plant Details
Key attributes
Botanical Name
Chamaecyparis Pis. Baby Blue
Common Name
Chamaecyparis Pis. Baby Blue
Size & Growth
Typically 4–6 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide in 10 years; ultimately 6–10 ft tall, 3–5 ft wide; naturally conical, dense habit.
Hardiness Zones
USDA 4–8 (roots in containers may be 1–2 zones less hardy; protect in severe cold).
Foliage Type
Evergreen, fine textured scale-like sprays; powdery blue to blue-green year-round.
Bloom Time
Not grown for flowers; inconspicuous cones. Pollen release typically in spring.
Growth Rate
Slow to moderate (about 3–6 inches per year under good conditions).
Light Requirements
Full sun to light/partial shade; best blue color with 6+ hours of sun. Provide afternoon shade in very hot summer regions.
Attracts Pollinators
No—wind-pollinated. Provides shelter and nesting cover for small birds and beneficial wildlife.
Indoor Friendly
Not suitable as a long-term houseplant; best grown outdoors year-round.
Container Friendly
Excellent when young in large, well-drained containers; upsize every 2–3 years and protect roots in winter in cold climates.
Deer Resistant
Generally deer-resistant to moderately resistant; browsing is uncommon but possible on very hungry deer.
Pet Warning
Considered non-toxic, but ingestion of foliage may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Keep prunings away from pets.
Fragrant
Subtle resinous aroma when foliage is brushed or crushed; not overtly fragrant in the landscape.
Cut Flower
Sprays are long-lasting in winter arrangements, wreaths, and holiday décor.
Grows Well With
Other dwarf conifers (Picea, Thuja, Juniperus), heaths and heathers (Erica/Calluna), Japanese maples, pieris, azaleas, and spring bulbs in well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Note: Attribute values are typical for this plant type and may vary slightly by growing region and conditions.
Care Tips
How to plant and care
Planting Instructions
Dig a hole 2–3× wider than the root ball and the same depth. Loosen sides, set the root flare level with or slightly above soil grade, backfill with native soil amended with compost if needed, water thoroughly, and apply a 2–3 inch mulch ring (keep mulch off the trunk).
Soil Moisture
Keep evenly moist, especially the first 1–2 growing seasons. Water deeply when the top 2 inches of soil are dry; avoid waterlogging.
Soil Type
Well-drained loam or sandy loam; slightly acidic (pH ~5.5–6.5). Improve heavy clay with compost and fine pine bark; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Tolerates average outdoor humidity. In windy, dry sites, provide windbreaks or strategic placement to reduce winter desiccation.
Pruning Instructions
Minimal pruning needed. Lightly shape in late winter to early spring if desired. Do not cut back into old, leafless wood; tip-prune only green growth. Remove dead or damaged sprigs as needed.
Winter Care
Water deeply before ground freeze, maintain mulch, and shield from harsh winter winds if exposed. In containers, move pots to a sheltered spot or insulate to protect roots.
Planting Depth
Set so the root flare is at soil level; never bury the trunk. For burlapped plants, remove all twine and wire at the top third after positioning.
Fertilization
Feed in early spring with a slow-release, acid-forming evergreen fertilizer following label rates. Avoid high-nitrogen or late-season feeding to prevent tender growth before winter.
Special Care
Mulch yearly to keep roots cool and conserve moisture. Ensure good air flow and drainage to reduce root and foliage stress. Monitor for spider mites during hot, dry spells and rinse foliage periodically if dust accumulates.
