Species nootka cypress
A large tree with a brown trunk and multiple green branches that are full of green leaves.

nootka cypress

Xanthocyparis nootkatensis

Nootka cypress (Xanthocyparis nootkatensis) is a evergreen conifer native to the western coast of North America. It is a medium-sized tree with a narrow columnar habit and rust-brown, scaly bark. Its glossy green foliage grows in thin flat sprays giving a feathery texture. It grows best in moist, well-drained soils in full sun but is tolerant of light shade. This hardy tree is salt and wind resistant and can withstand temperatures as low as -15°C. It is drought tolerant and grows best in an acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. Nootka cypress makes an ideal screening hedge or windbreak and is popularly used as a street or avenue tree.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Nootka cypress needs regular watering to stay healthy and thrive. It should be watered deeply once a week in the spring and summer, and it should be watered approximately every other week in the fall and winter. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy. If the plant appears to be wilting, check the soil and water more frequently. Water at the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage as this can lead to fungal diseases and insect damage.

sunlight

Nootka cypress prefers full sun exposure and should receive at least 6 hours of direct light each day for the best growth. The time of day is not important - the sun should be a consistent part of the day. Partial shade is also tolerated, especially during extreme heat or prolonged periods of full sun. Too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and sparse looking.

pruning

Nootka cypress is a slow growing conifer that needs minimal pruning to maintain its shape. It should be pruned every year during the late winter to early spring months while the plant is dormant. Pruning should remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed. It is best to prune lightly and selectively, removing no more than 1-third of the foliage for the best long-term health of the plant. When pruning, always use sharp, clean tools to make a smooth cut and please disinfect the tools for safety.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Nootka cypress typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map