Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'WISSELII' Lawson cypress, false cypress
size/type
taller shrub,taller shrub
usual height
3-6m
usual width
1-2m
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
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:
Wisselii is a gorgeous variety of Lawson cypress. It was found by a Dutch grower F. van der Wissel in 1888. It is an evergreen conifer of strictly upright, columnar growth and picturesque habit. Its branches are covered with scale-like, emerald green needles.Wisselii cypress grows rather slowly, and can be only 1 meter tall at the age of 5 years. In maturity, which is anything over 50 years, it can reach as tall as 6 meters, and not more than 2 meters wide. Prune or shape it in mid spring or midsummer. Do not cut into old wood.
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 22-02-2013
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