Chamaecyparis pisifera, commonly known as Sawara Cypress, is an evergreen coniferous tree native to moist, well-drained soils in the mountain regions of Japan. It is a slow-growing species, reaching heights of 35–50 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. The bark is red-brown, vertically fissured, and has a stringy texture. The foliage is arranged in flat sprays with scale-like leaves; in cultivars, the leaves may be green, blue-green, or yellow. The small, spherical cones mature in autumn. Sawara Cypress is particularly noted for its attractive conical form and fine-textured foliage, which can vary significantly among cultivars.

This tree is valued for its versatility and ornamental qualities, making it a popular choice for parks, gardens, and urban landscapes. It is also used for bonsai and as a specimen tree. Sawara Cypress prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water, thriving in well-drained soils. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, provided they are well-draining. Cultivars offer a variety of forms and colors, such as the dwarf ’Boulevard’ with blue-gray foliage, and ’Golden Mop’ with its distinctive golden-yellow foliage. While generally disease-resistant, it can suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soils and can be affected by cypress canker. It is also sensitive to air pollution and salt spray.CC BY-SA 4.0