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We guarantee your plants will arrive healthy and thriving
Origin
Proudly Grown In Canada
Plants are propagated in Canada at our very own nursery here on Vancouver Island, BC.
We Ship Anywhere In Canada
We Ship Anywhere In Canada
Your plants will be safely and securely delivered by UPS

Dwarf Sawara Cypress

Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Tsukumo' is an exceptionally slow-growing dwarf conifer, prized for its compact habit, refined texture, and timeless character. Native to Japan, this cultivar is especially valued in bonsai cultivation and miniature landscapes, where patience and precision are rewarded with a living work of art.

Growth Form & Habit

'Tsukumo' forms a dense, irregular, flat-topped mound with naturally tight structure:

  • Reaches only 10 inches tall after 20 years—true dwarf scale
  • Bun-shaped habit with minimal pruning required
  • Excellent ramification potential for detailed bonsai work
  • Maintains compact form naturally without aggressive shearing

Its slow, deliberate growth makes it ideal for long-term projects and container cultivation.

Foliage & Texture

The fine, scale-like foliage provides year-round interest and depth:

  • Medium green with subtle blue tint beneath
  • Soft, refined texture that adds elegance to any composition
  • Evergreen foliage provides structure through all seasons
  • Dense branching creates visual weight and maturity even in young specimens

The layered foliage and natural aging characteristics make this cultivar a standout for collectors.

Ideal for Bonsai & Garden Use

‘Tsukumo’ was famously introduced to Canada by Tak Yamaura, one of British Columbia’s most well-known bonsai artists. Its extremely slow growth, ability to age gracefully, and responsiveness to training make it a long-term investment for serious enthusiasts. It excels in bonsai, accent plantings, container gardens, and miniature landscapes where refinement and character are paramount.

Why Choose 'Tsukumo' Cypress?

  • Exceptionally slow growth: Perfect for bonsai and long-term projects
  • Cold-hardy and long-lived: Thrives in Canadian climates with minimal care
  • Container-friendly: Ideal for patios, accent plantings, and display benches
  • Naturally compact: Requires minimal pruning to maintain character

Grown in Canada, for Canada. All our dwarf conifers are cultivated and shipped from our Canadian nursery with care, ensuring they arrive healthy and ready to thrive in your climate.

 

Tsukumo Cypress bonsai illustration

Note: Growth rate and mature size are approximate. Individual plants may vary slightly based on growing conditions and care.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Chamaecyparis obtusa
Hardiness Zones
5-8 (Canadian zones 5a-8b)
Mature Height
3-4 ft. tall
Mature Width
2-3 ft. wide
Sun Needs
Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours direct sun preferred)
Water Needs
Moderate - keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment
Growth Rate
Slow (2-4 inches per year)
Defining Characteristic
Compact dwarf form with unique crinkled, golden-green foliage
Unique Texture

Unique Texture

Distinctive crinkled or crimped foliage creates exceptional visual interest and texture in the garden, unlike typical Hinoki cypress varieties.
Year-Round Color

Year-Round Color

Maintains vibrant golden-green foliage throughout all seasons, providing consistent color even in winter landscapes.
Low Maintenance

Low Maintenance

Slow growth rate and compact size make this an ideal low-maintenance evergreen for small gardens, containers, or rock gardens. Requires minimal pruning.

Sun Needs

Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours direct sun preferred)

Soil

Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.0-7.0). Thrives in rich, organic soil with good moisture retention. Amend heavy clay with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.

Temperature

Hardy in zones 5-8. Tolerates winter cold but benefits from protection from harsh winter winds. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.

Water and Mulching

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially during the first 2 years. Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Avoid letting soil dry out completely.
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