Dwarf Lemon Cypress Hesperocyparis macrocarpa 'Goldcrest Wilma'

'Goldcrest Wilma', is a cultivar of Hesperocyparis macrocarpa and a dwarf selection of the cultivar, 'Goldcrest'. Ironically, while Hesperocyparis macrocarpa, the primary species, is one of the largest of the cypress and can reach 80 feet high, 'Goldcrest Wilma' matures to a height of only 6 feet. 'Goldcrest Wilma' is a narrow, columnar, needled evergreen conifer with year round, bright yellow foliage. Although it shares a name with another cultivar, 'Wilma', the two should not be confused. Cultivar 'Wilma' is slower growing, while 'Goldcrest Wilma' is fast growing and has a more open branching habit.

'Goldcrest Wilma' tolerates a range of soil pH, but needs well-drained soil and thrives in sandy soils. Because it grows quickly, you should avoid planting it in rich soil that would encourage quick growth and make it susceptible to strong winds. It can be grown in a container, but be sure to water regularly.  It is an easy to grow plant that requires little pruning unless being grown as a hedge.  If you must prune, do so in the spring. Due to its small size, it can be used as a container plant or houseplant.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:

Susceptible to borers. Armillaria, Phytophthora, root rot, and coryneum canker are disease problems.

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 Hesperocyparis macrocarpa 'Goldcrest'.