Contents
Description
Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta, commonly known as Japanese Cedar or Sugiki in Japan, is an evergreen coniferous tree native to Japan. It belongs to the family Cupressaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and compact size. This slow-growing tree can reach a height of up to 30 feet and a spread of 15 feet at maturity. Its green needles turn bronze in winter, adding to its visual appeal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Cryptomeria |
Appearance
The Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta has a pyramidal shape with a dense, conical crown. Its leaves are needle-like and evergreen, with a glossy green color. The needles are 0.4 to 0.8 inches long and grow in whorls of five on the twigs. In winter, the needles turn bronze, adding to its visual appeal. The tree’s bark is reddish-brown and peels off in strips. Its cones are small and brown, measuring about 0.6 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
The Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in many conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.
- Soil: This tree prefers acidic, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This tree grows in hardiness zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta is generally pest-resistant, but it can still fall prey to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the needles. Use a miticide to control them.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and dropping of the needles. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the tree’s roots to rot and eventually kill it. Plant the tree in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta is native to Japan, where it grows in cool, moist climates at elevations of up to 5,000 feet. It can also grow in a variety of soils, including volcanic soils. In the United States, it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does the Cryptomeria Japonica Elegans Compacta grow?
A: This tree can grow up to 30 feet tall at maturity.
Q: What is the tree’s hardiness zone?
A: This tree grows in hardiness zones 5-8.
Q: Does the tree attract any wildlife?
A: The tree’s cones can attract birds and small mammals.
Q: Can the tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full height potential.
Related Plants
- Cryptomeria Japonica
- Cryptomeria Japonica Globosa Nana
- Cryptomeria Japonica Radicans
- Cryptomeria Japonica Sekkan Sugi
References
- “Cryptomeria japonica Elegans Compacta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c151.
- “Cryptomeria japonica Elegans Compacta.” Plant Database. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/cryptomeria-japonica-elegans-compacta-japanese-cedar.
- “Cryptomeria japonica Elegans Compacta.” Plant Information Online. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1404636.
