Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Plumosa Aurea'

Moss False Cypress

A popular and ornamental false cypress selected for its soft, feathery foliage in bright golden-yellow tones that lend year-round color and texture to landscapes. The finely dissected sprays hold their hue best in sunlight, creating a luminous, warm accent among darker evergreens or mixed plantings.

Size:



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 6–10 ft



Zones: 4a–8b

Light: Full sun to partial shade
(Golden color is brightest in full sun; light afternoon shade prevents fading or scorch in hotter climates.)

Soil: Moist, well-drained soils

Features:



Evergreen conifer with soft, golden-yellow, feathery foliage



Form: Upright to loosely pyramidal



Airy, delicate texture with strong seasonal presence



Attracts: Birds (shelter and cover)

Uses:
Specimen accent, mixed evergreen borders, foundation plantings, contrast plantings, mass groupings

Notes:
Moderate growth rate. For best color and health, avoid hot, dry conditions and poorly drained soils. Minimal pruning needed—light shaping only if desired.

Plant type

Conifer

Height

6-10'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full sun to part shade

Growth rate

Slow

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Specimen

Shape

Pyramidal, Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No