Conifer
Golden Mop
Chamaecyparis pisifera
A dwarf, mounding selection of Sawara Cypress named for its distinctive thread-like, cascading golden foliage that gives the whole plant a tousled, "mop-like" appearance. The bright yellow-gold color holds well through the growing season, providing a strong textural and color contrast against broader-leaved and darker green plantings.
Growing Specifications
- Height
- Compact mounding form; naturally slow-growing
- Spread
- Compact mounding form; naturally slow-growing
- Watering
- Moderate; consistent moisture preferred, sensitive to prolonged drought
- Light
- Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Heat Tolerance
- Moderate; benefits from afternoon shade protection in intense North Texas summer heat
- Growth Rate
- Slow to Moderate
- Soil Requirement
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil
North Texas Micro-climate Notes
As with other golden-foliage dwarf conifers, this specimen benefits from a sheltered position with protection from harsh, drying afternoon wind and the most intense western summer sun to keep its color from bleaching.
Care Instructions
Plant in well-draining, organically rich soil. Water consistently, especially during the first two growing seasons, and avoid letting the root zone dry out completely.
Landscape Usage
Effective as a textural, colorful low mound in a mixed border, rock garden, or foundation planting where its distinctive thread-like foliage stands out.
