Chamaecyparis nootkatenesis (Alaska False Cypress) is native to the Pacific northwest, ranging from northern California to Alaska.  In the wild it is a large slow-growing tree with a graceful weeping habit.  An alternate name for the species is Xanthocyparis nootkatensis.  

 

Spectacular cultivars are available in both narrow and wider forms.  'Green Arrow' and 'Van den Akker' are two popular narrow forms,  and others with this attribute are 'Moonshot,' 'Jubliee' and 'Strict Weeping.'   They grow tall and narrow, with a skirt of wider branches at the base of the tree.  The blue-green 'Glauca' has a denser wider habit, as does the yellow-tinged 'Aurea.' A commanding presence in any garden, 'Glauca Pendula' is an open and airy tree.

 

These trees grow well in full sun and prefer moist growing conditions.  They don't want to be in constantly wet soil, but their native range is a temperate rain forest, kept moist by winter rains and summer fogs.  Hardy from Zone 4 to Zone 7. 

 

Saturday, September 17, 2011 in Rockford IL  

 

Don't miss the opportunity to learn from Tim Gruner, the curator of Anderson Japanese Gardens, and Dr. Jeffrey Behr, a Rockford resident who has a collection of 185 Japanese maples. Tour Klehm Arboretum, Anderson Japanese Gardens, and 5 private gardens. 

 

Click here for details: 

Second Annual American Conifer Society Illinois Rendezvous