Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'

'Golden Mop' is a yellow needled evergreen shrub cultivar in the cypress family (Cupressaceae ). The species is native to Japan. The cultivar originated in the mid-20th century as a mutation of C. pisifera 'Filifera Aurea.' It differs from the parent cultivar by having brighter color, finer foliage, and a slower rate of growth. The genus name derives from the Greek words chamai, for dwarf or low to the ground, and kyparissos, for "cypress." The species epithet, pisifera, is Latin meaning “pea-bearing” and refers to the small, rounded cones borne by this plant. The cultivar name comes from its yellow-green foliage and similarity in shape to a mop.

It grows slowly, up to 5 feet tall and wide with a rounded, pyramidal form, but may take up to 10 years to reach 2 feet in height. This plant does best in sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, moist to average soils. It tolerates some drought once it becomes established. This is a low-maintenance plant that seldom needs pruning.

The pendulous and whip-like foliage holds its color throughout the year. Exfoliating peeling reddish brown bark adds to the plants visual interest.

Use this uniquely colored evergreen shrub in small groups in rock gardens, plant along a foundation or as a specimen in the landscape for winter interest. Its small size make it an excellent choice for a patio planting or planted in a row as a low hedge

Quick ID Hints:  

• Dwarf shrub
• Scale-like leaves
• Green/gold color

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Somewhat susceptible to bagworms, root rot, and juniper blight.  See Clemson's publication on root rot.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Chamaecyparis pisifera.