Plant of the week – Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Filifera Nana’ has in my opinion a groovy somewhat unpolished vibe about it. The weeping threadlike branches hang to the ground reminiscent of an upside down mop. It puts a smile to my face. Even better, as it’s a coniferous evergreen shrub, it will do that all year long. So little to smile about these days, innit?
Plant of the week – Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Filifera Nana’
This cypress is a small shrub, growing no taller than around one metre after about 10 years (the Nana part of the name refers to its small size). In time it reaches around the same width. It likes a sunny to partial shade location and moist but well-drained soil. It has small globose cones 4–8 mm diameter – pisifera in Latin means “pea-bearing”.
How to use this groovy plant in a garden design scheme? The sample seen here was unfortunately squeezed in amongst a range of other plants. Not good in my books, as it doesn’t flaunt its fine round form and foliage. It might be low but I find it’s a bit of a statement plant, it will generate interest. I would use it as a single specimen in the front or middle of a border. Alternatively in a small grouping for more impact, in this instance it will also take on the role as ground cover. It would also look good in a rockery garden if the soil allows for it. Or why not in a planter?
It is native to the Japanese islands of Honshu and Kyushu, is slow growing and requires no pruning. Having said that, any shoots that ruin the symmetry of the plant can be removed in autumn.
