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 local 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