SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon'
COMMON NAME: Black Dragon Japanese Cedar
GARDEN SIZE: 6-7 feet by 3-4 feet; ultimately up to 10 feet
GROWTH RATE: Slow; up to 6-8 inches per year under ideal conditions
USDA ZONE: 5-9
EXPOSURE: Full Sun to Partial Sun
WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained soil and has average water requirements.
HABIT (FORM): Pyramidal
FOLIAGE: Evergreen Conifer; Light green in spring, deep black-green in summer. Foliage may bronze during the winter in this zone.
FLOWERS: n/a (inconspicuous). Cone-bearing.
PLANT ORIGIN: Central and south Japan and China
WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide winter cover and nesting areas for small mammals and birds, but not a significant source of support for native wildlife.
FERTILIZING: Use an acidic fertilizer to feed cryptomeria in the spring and fall.
PRUNING: Minimal shearing required. Hand pruning in late winter or early summer is best if you do decide to trim them.
TOXICITY: Not reported to be toxic to Dogs, Cats, or Horses
USES: Specimen, Screening, Hedging