Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon'
Japanese cedar 'Black Dragon'
A small conifer, to around 2m high in 10 years, with fibrous red-brown bark and dense, very dark green foliage. Initial growth is vigorous and upright, later slowing and filling in to a bushy, conical shape
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Cryptomeria are large evergreen trees with attractive red-brown bark and dense foliage consisting of short awl-shaped leaves arranged spirally around the branchlets; cones are spherical
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Tolerates most soils, but prefers a humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Requires a sheltered site. Dislikes waterlogging and salt-laden winds
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to Phytophthora root rot and honey fungus (rarely)
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