Chamaecyparis obtusa 'DRAHT' Hinoki cypress

Draht is another jewel of Hinoki cypress. It was bred in Germany nurseries of G.J.Draht in 1960’s and received the same name Draht which means „wire“. Funnily enough it is very apposite because this cypress makes short scale-like needles, composed along twisted wire-like branches. The needles are evergreen, rich emerald green in summer and a little lighter with bronze hues in winter. It grows slowly, yet surprisingly to about 2-3m in full maturity (20-25 years).

It looks great as a specimen plant, or sensibly placed in a mixed border with other dwarf conifers or compact perennials. Hinoki cypress are invaluable plants for bonsai making.

Hinoki cypress likes medium fertile, acid to neutral, moist but well-drained soil. Grow it preferably in full sun or only a light shade so that the plant keeps its compact shape and bottom branches. Pruning or trimming can be done in early spring after all frosts. Mulching is recommended for keeping the soil moist. Fully hardy to -29°C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 23-02-2012