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Description
Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea, commonly known as the dwarf silver threadleaf false cypress, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that typically reaches a height of 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) and a spread of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm). This small tree features soft, feathery needles that are silver-blue in color and give the plant a delicate appearance. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a container plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Chamaecyparis |
Appearance
Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea has a compact, pyramidal shape with a slight arching habit. The needles are soft and feathery, measuring around 0.1 inches (3 mm) in length. The foliage is silver-blue in color, which gives the plant a unique appearance. In the winter, the foliage takes on a purple tint. This small tree has a slow growth rate, typically adding only 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) of growth per year.
Care Guide
Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea is a hardy plant that can be grown in a wide range of conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. This tree prefers full sun to partial shade and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. Watering: It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once per week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea does not require fertilizer, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring to encourage growth.Soil: This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This tree is also susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet.
Habitat
Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, where it grows in mountainous areas. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, forest edges, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this tree can be grown in containers. However, it will need to be repotted every few years as it outgrows its container.
Q: How often should I water Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea?
A: Water deeply once per week, or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
Q: Does this tree require pruning?
A: Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can this tree be grown in shade?
A: Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana Pygmaea Argentea prefers full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana ‘Wissel’s Saguaro’
- Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana ‘Ellwoodii’
- Chamaecyparis Lawsoniana ‘Columnaris’
References
- “Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Pygmaea Argentea’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277430&isprofile=0.
- “Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Pygmaea Argentea’.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55787/.
- “Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Pygmaea Argentea’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1263/Chamaecyparis-lawsoniana-Pygmaea-Argentea/Details.
