Sawara cypress - Chamaecyparis pisifera

Chamaecyparis pisifera, commonly known as Sawara cypress, is a species of evergreen conifer tree native to Japan. It belongs to the Cupressaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in landscaping and gardening due to its attractive foliage and texture.

Sawara cypress is a slow-growing tree that can reach a height of up to 70 feet (21 meters) with a spread of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters). It has a conical or pyramidal shape with drooping branches and flat, scale-like leaves that are blue-gray to yellow-green in color. The tree produces small cones that are about 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.

There are several cultivars of Sawara cypress available in the horticultural trade, including dwarf and variegated forms. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and light conditions, although it prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It is also tolerant of salt spray and is often used in coastal landscapes.

Sawara cypress is resistant to most pests and diseases, although it may be susceptible to canker and root rot in poorly-drained soils. It is generally a low-maintenance plant that requires little pruning or shaping, although it may benefit from occasional thinning to improve air circulation and light penetration.

In Japanese culture, Sawara cypress is considered a sacred tree and is often planted at shrines and temples. It is also used in traditional Japanese gardens as a specimen plant or in hedges and screens.