Chamaecyparis lawsoniana Blue Surprise

Blue Surprise LawsonsFalse Cypress

A compact, eye-catching evergreen conifer valued for its intense steel-blue foliage and dense, upright pyramidal form. Fine-textured sprays hold strong color through the growing season, providing cool-toned contrast and year-round structure. ‘Blue Surprise’ delivers bold color without excessive size, making it ideal for smaller landscapes.

Size



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 10–15 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5a–8b



Light



Full sun to partial shade



Best blue color in full sun; light afternoon shade beneficial in warmer regions



Soil



Well-drained soils; prefers fertile, loamy conditions



Slightly acidic to neutral pH



Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites



Attracts



Birds (cover and shelter)



Suitable Conditions



Performs best in cool to moderate climates



Benefits from protection against hot, drying winds



Allow space to maintain its natural pyramidal habit



Notes



Shape: Dense pyramidal to narrowly conical



Holds richer blue color than many Lawson cypress selections



Excellent vertical accent, specimen, or foundation conifer



Minimal pruning required; best maintained naturally

Plant type

Dwarf Conifer, Evergreen Tree

Height

10-15'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Leaf color

Steel Blue

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Specimen

Shape

Pyramidal

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No