Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Paul's Select'
Paul's Select Hinoki False Cypress
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Height
- 6 ft to 8 ft
- Width
- 3 ft to 4 ft
- Flower color
- Reddish pollen cones
- Foliage color
- Rich deep green fans with layered shell like sprays
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune selectively only as needed to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Songbirds use the dense evergreen branches for shelter and nesting sites
About this plant
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Paul's Select' features rich green foliage arranged in layered fans, creating a dense evergreen canopy with a refined texture that remains attractive throughout the year. Soft, scale-like sprays are held on gracefully arching branches, giving the plant depth and a sculptural quality. Small reddish male cones and inconspicuous female cones appear in spring, adding subtle seasonal interest among the foliage. Fresh growth emerges with lighter green tones, enhancing the intricate branching pattern and year-round color.
Originating from a species native to Japan, this cultivar was selected for its elegant form and ornamental character. It is well suited to conifer collections, woodland gardens, foundation plantings, and specimen settings, where its evergreen structure and finely textured foliage provide enduring seasonal appeal.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Rock Gardens · Containers · Foundation Plantings
Companion plants
Thyme · English lavender · Dianthus · Blue oat grass · Euphorbias · Globe thistle
Design tip
Layered, arching foliage gives this Hinoki cypress a naturally sculptural quality, so it can bring definition to an area without needing flowers for impact. Consider it near a garden corner or change in direction, where its distinctive form can help organize the surrounding space.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at The Oregon Garden.
