Moss False-cypress Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Squarrosa'

'Squarrosa' is cultivar of a large evergreen conifer native to Japan and belonging to the cypress family (Cupressaceae). 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 tree. The cultivar name, 'Squarrosa,' is Latin for rough, and refers to the fact that the needles stand erect on the branches on juvenile shoots. This cultivar originated in Japan and was brought to Europe in the mid-19th century.

This fast growing  needled evergreen tree has a conical form that can be grown as a tree or large shrub at a rate of 1 and 1/2 feet per year to reach 12 to 18 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide, over a long period of time and given enough space it may reach heights of 30-65 feet tall. 

The blue green to gray soft needles stand erect from the branches and are highly ornamental. Plant in any moist well-drained soil with protection from the wind in sun to part shade. Interior branches tend to die back and become unattractive, necessitating regular pruning to remove dead wood.

Often used as a focal point or specimen tree in a lawn, at the back of a border, or as a screening plant.

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

VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I:  Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II:  Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University

More information on Chamaecyparis pisifera.