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Key characteristics

Family: Cupressaceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 3 to 4 feet
Flower color: Inconspicuous
Foliage color: Dark green, with bronze tones in winter
Bloom time: Not applicable
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning required
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 8
Wildlife: Provides shelter for small birds and wildlife

Shrubs

Cryptomeria japonica ‘Little Champion’

Little Champion Japanese Cedar

Cryptomeria japonica 'Little Champion' produces small, inconspicuous reproductive cones in spring, although its foliage and form provide the primary ornamental interest. Short, awl-shaped needles are held tightly along curved branchlets, creating distinctive rope-like sprays of bright green foliage. New growth emerges fresh green before deepening to emerald, with bronzy to purplish tones sometimes developing during colder winter weather. Dense branching naturally forms a compact, rounded mound with a soft yet intricate texture that remains attractive throughout the year.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Not applicable

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Rock Gardens
Containers
Foundation Plantings

Companion plants

Gaura · Weigela · Salvia · Baptisia · Lilies · Mexican feather grass

Design tip

The naturally rounded form brings a sense of order without looking clipped or overly formal. Its fine, feathery foliage contrasts especially well with broad-leaved shrubs and perennials, while bronze winter tones provide a subtle seasonal change without sacrificing evergreen structure.