Botanical profile

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Golden Pincushion'

Latin name
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Golden Pincushion'
Common name
Hinoki Cypress 'Golden Pincushion'
Type
Coniferous
Family
Cupressaceae

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Golden Pincushion' is an ornamental dwarf conifer highly valued for its naturally flattened habit and bright, fine-textured foliage. It forms a compact, slightly spreading silhouette, resembling a dense and uniform golden cushion, without the need for pruning. Its evergreen foliage, composed of short, tightly packed branches, displays a vibrant golden yellow hue that persists all year, especially in sunny conditions. Ideal for rockeries, borders, Japanese gardens, and container planting, it brings structure and contrast to landscape designs. Slow-growing and easy to maintain, this Hinoki cypress is well-suited to Quebec conditions when planted in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and protected from excessive winter winds.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5–8
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate
Fertilization
Light in spring
Soil type
Well-drained, slightly acidic
Minimum temperature
-20.2 °F
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Not specified
Flower color
Not specified
Fruiting
Small, plain, unadorned cones
Foliage color
Golden yellow
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Flattened and compact pad
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
0.6–0.8 m (2–2.5 ft)
Width
3–4 ft (1–1.2 m)
Growth rate
Slow

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.