December Tree of the Month-Japanese Cedar

Remember that one handsome boy back in high school? You know the type: great hair and smile. Drove a Mustang. Snappy dresser, outgoing, personable … surrounded by friends and admirers. Most likely, he was Prom King. You heard he was trouble but fell in love with him anyway. By the time your 10-year reunion rolled around, he was already divorced, bald, overweight, unemployed, alcoholic, and drove a rusty Suzuki Samurai.

That’s how I describe my relationship with Japanese cedar, Cryptomeria japonica.

Oh, Cryptomeria … so handsome and full of promise at first, then they break your heart. I have seen some outstanding specimens around St. Louis and in clients’ gardens, then watched them die. The beautiful ‘Yoshino’ cultivar beside my patio was outstanding…until it wasn’t. Just like any other girl in a bad relationship, I thought I was going to make it work-it would be different with ME, despite warnings from my friends. And for 12 years, we had a great relationship.  Then, I noticed a few brown branches at the top one winter. “That’s okay, just a little winter burn,” I said. Next thing ya know, I’ve got a code red, and well, let’s just say I’ve been in a much more stable and reliable relationship with the ‘rebound’ plant for five years now!

MBG Plantfinder says Japanese cedar can grow up to 60 feet, but most die out around St. Louis before even reaching 20 feet, or at least end up with huge hunks missing or brown (usually near the top) that ruin its normally beautiful pyramidal shape.

I’ve tried the ‘Black Dragon’ cultivar, thinking it might be hardier, but it also left me wounded. So far, I have only had good luck with the dwarf, shrubby cultivars. (insert link)

IF you want to give Japanese cedar a try, pick a protected place away from bitter winds and water regularly, especially during drought. Full sun is preferred but they will tolerate part-shade.

What I love about this plant;

–Elegant, pyramidal shape,

-Evergreen

-Unique texture

What’s not so great;

-Not a long-lived plant for our area.

Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com

Words and photos by Jo Batzer

© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2024, All rights reserved.