Nootka Cypress (Xanthocyparis Nootkatensis)

Nootka Cypress

Features and Characteristics

Xanthocyparis nootkatensis is commonly called Nootka cypress, Alaska-cedar or yellow cypress. It is native to moist soils in bottomlands, along streams and in ravines along the Pacific Coast from southeastern Alaska to northern California. It is an evergreen conifer that will grow slowly to as much as 60-90′ tall in the wild and live for 1000+ years. Drooping sprays of small, scale-like, bluish-green leaves. Rounded seed cones to 1/2” diameter. Bark is gray and peels in loose scales. Trunk is buttressed at the base. Although it may grow from 60-90’ tall in the wild, it usually grows much shorter in home landscapes. This species was reportedly found by A. Menzies in Nootka Sound in 179

This plant was originally described in the genus Cupressus, which many botanist consider to be correct, but has also been placed in Chamaecyparis and Xanthocyparis (as done here). Some strong evidence suggests, however, that it maybe should be placed in the monotypic genus Callitropsis.

Specific epithet means of Nootka Sound, British Columbia.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun in the northern part of its growing range, but appreciates some afternoon part shade in the southern part of its range. Best performance is in moist, fertile soils in cool summer climates with above average humidity/rainfall.

Nootka Cypress (Xanthocyparis Nootkatensis) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No known serious insect or disease problems. Plants generally have some susceptibility to juniper blight, root rot and certain insect pests such as bagworms and juniper scale. Watch for red spider mite. Plants may struggle in the St. Louis area where environmental conditions do not favor most conifers.

Uses

Landscape specimen.

Although the native species is rarely grown far from its native habitat, ‘Pendula’ is a compact weeping form that is much more common in eastern North America.

Nootka Cypress (Xanthocyparis Nootkatensis) Details

Common name	Nootka Cypress
Botanical name	Xanthocyparis Nootkatensis
Plant type	Needled Evergreen
Family	Cupressaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Non-Flowering
Flowering period	Non-Flowering
Height	40 - 90 Ft.
Width	15 - 25 Ft.