Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Golden Sprite'

'Golden Sprite' Hinoki Falsecypress

A charming dwarf Hinoki cypress known for its bright golden-yellow foliage and compact, rounded to low-mounded habit. The foliage retains the classic Hinoki fan-shaped, shell-like texture, with color holding well year-round—brightest in sun and cooler weather. Its tidy size and refined texture make it ideal for small gardens and detailed plantings.

Size:



Width: 2–3 ft



Height: 2–3 ft



Zones: 5a–8b

Light: Full sun to partial shade
(Best color in sun; light afternoon shade in hotter climates)

Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils

Features:



Evergreen conifer with vivid golden foliage



Dense, compact, dwarf habit



Excellent year-round color and texture



Attracts: Birds (cover and shelter)

Uses:
Rock gardens, containers, foundation accents, mixed conifer borders, Japanese and Asian-inspired gardens

Notes:
Slow growing and long-lived. Avoid hot, dry sites and poorly drained soils. Minimal pruning required; best left to develop its natural form.

Plant type

Dwarf Conifer

Height

2-3'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Leaf color

Yellow Green

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Mass Planting, Specimen

Shape

Low Mounding

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No