Chamaecyparis: The extent of sizes, shapes and colours in this genus means there is something for everyone, says Sally Nex

摘要

There are well over 700 cultivars of Chamaecyparis in every conceivable shape, size and colour, from elegant, tall, specimen trees to tiny miniatures less than 20cm high. This allows an unrivalled choice for customers, who can expect to find at leastone cultivar to suit their needs. While growers have mixed opinions over whether or not there is a conifer revival underway, Chamaecyparis is a genus that might yet convince doubters. There are six species, of which four are readily available from growers. Lawson cypresses (C. lawsoniana) come from the mountainous regions of California, and because they seed so freely they've received the most attention from breeders. The result is an excellent range of dwarf cultivars for rockeries and container growing. Other species, like C. pisifera and the Japanese C. obtusa, offer different habits and beautiful foliage, and are gaining rapidly in popularity.