Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'SUNKIST' Lawson cypress
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
0,5-1m
usual width
0,5-1m
leaves
evergreen conifer
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full to partial sun
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Chamaecyparis
Lawson cypress is native to northwestern America, from Oregon to northern California. It was first discovered by European Americans near Port Orford, Oregon, and was introduced to horticultural market in 1854. It was described by the Scottish botanist Andrew Murray (1812-1878) and named after another Scottish botanist and merchant, Charles Lawson (1795-1873), who became famous by importing new plant species from America to Britain. This cypress tree was one of his discoveries. It is a hardy, evergreen conifer with soft, scale-like needles. Perhaps all over the world in temperate climates, it is widely planted in gardens and parks and is popular for its variability. There are many colourful varieties that brighten up compositions of dark green shrubs and trees and perform also in decorative outdoor containers.Description of the plant:
Sunkist is a dwarf, compact Lawson cypress, similar to Mini Globus. It is a slow growing conifer with attractive flat sprays of mid green foliage that is not prickly. Ends of new branches emerge bright yellow or yellow-green and the plant keeps its fresh appeal until autumn when the yellow shades become more prominent again. It makes a compact, globular shape, about 1m tall and wide in maturity. It is not supposed to be pruned as we are happy for every centimeter it makes. But if you dare you can shape it. False cypress prefers moist but well-drained, slightly acidic soil but is adaptable to almost all types of soil. Grow it in full sun or half shade either in a garden bed or in an outdoor pot. Fully hardy to about -29°C (USDA zone 5).
Last update 06-02-2013
