Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans' (Japanese Cedar) – A Graceful Evergreen Conifer with Soft, Feathery Foliage and Year-Round Appeal
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans', commonly known as Japanese Cedar, is an elegant evergreen conifer that brings soft, feathery foliage and a refined texture to any garden. With its fine, needle-like leaves that change from silvery-blue in the spring to a rich green in summer, and its subtle bronze tint in winter, 'Elegans' provides year-round interest and beauty. Growing to a height of 1.5–2.5 meters (5–8 feet), this slow-growing shrub is perfect for adding structure to smaller gardens, borders, or rockeries. Its compact size, graceful form, and minimal maintenance needs make it an ideal choice for both contemporary and traditional landscapes.
Why Grow Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans' (Japanese Cedar)?
Soft, Feathery Foliage – The fine, needle-like leaves of this conifer create a soft, airy texture that adds elegance and movement to the garden, especially in the wind.
Year-Round Interest – The foliage changes subtly with the seasons, from silvery-blue in spring to green in summer, and develops a beautiful bronze tint in winter, ensuring year-round visual appeal.
Compact Size – Reaching a height of 1.5–2.5 meters (5–8 feet), 'Elegans' is perfect for smaller gardens, foundation plantings, or as a low hedge or specimen plant in mixed borders.
Low-Maintenance & Hardy – Japanese Cedar 'Elegans' is hardy and easy to maintain, requiring minimal care to thrive, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a graceful conifer that won't demand much attention.
Wildlife-Friendly – While not a direct food source, the dense foliage provides shelter for birds and small wildlife, adding a layer of biodiversity to your garden.
Planting & Care Guide
Position – Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in well-lit locations but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. It’s ideal for borders, specimen planting, or as part of a mixed evergreen display.
Soil – Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as the soil is not too alkaline or waterlogged.
Watering – Water regularly during dry spells, especially during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, 'Elegans' is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.
Maintenance:
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Pruning – Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove any damaged or dead branches. Pruning is best done in early spring before the new growth begins, as this is a slow-growing conifer.
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Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and suppress weeds.
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Fertilizing – Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth, especially if the soil is nutrient-poor.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans' pairs well with other conifers such as Juniper, Thuja, or Abies to create a textured evergreen backdrop. It works beautifully in mixed borders with deciduous shrubs like Spiraea, Hydrangea, or Berberis, which offer contrasting foliage and seasonal colour. For a more natural look, combine with ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus or Pennisetum, enhancing the feathery texture of the Cryptomeria. This elegant conifer is also perfect for Japanese-inspired gardens or as a tranquil addition to woodland settings, adding a sense of calm and sophistication to your landscape.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
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