Snow False-cypress Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Snow'

‘Snow’ false-cypress is a dwarf, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub in the cypress family (Cupressaceae). It grows slowly, reaching a height of 1 to 6 feet with a 5 to 6 foot spread. This is an old cultivar that originated  in Japan and became available outside of Japan in the mid-20th Century. 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 alludes to the white tips of the needles in summer.

It is somewhat sensitive to the hot summer sun and winds, so plant in a sheltered location in partial shade. Plant in any moist, well-drained soil. 'Snow' is resistant to browsing by deer.

‘Snow’ false cypress has a more or less rounded form. This shrub features bluish foliage in sprays with white tips that are particularly prominent in spring. 

Use as an accent, border, screening hedge, or foundation plant. It can also be grown in containers or at the edge of lawn.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.

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.