Chamaecyparis nootkatensis Pendula - Weeping Nootka Cypress

Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Pendula', more commonly known as Weeping Nootka Cypress, is a large conifer with a picturesque and graceful appearance with its conical upright habit and trailing branches. It produces loose and horizontal branches, from which drape beautiful dark green curtains. This hardy and wildly romantic conifer reaches approximately 20m (65ft 7in) in height and 8m (26ft 2in) in spread. It can be planted as a specimen or in small groups in the middle of a lawn in a medium to large-sized garden. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, in preferably light, acidic, fertile, and moist soil.

Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Pendula' is a majestic conifer from the Cupressaceae family, native to the humid and acidic coastal regions of the northwest United States. In its natural environment, it often reaches heights of over 30m (98ft 5in). It has a straight and conical habit, and its trailing branches form soft curtains adorned with dark green foliage.

In our climate, the Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 'Pendula' will have a more moderate growth. It forms a mysterious and elegant tree with a very weeping upright habit, reaching between 15 and 20m (49ft 2in and 65ft 7in) in height and 8 to 10m (26ft 2in to 32ft 10in) in spread. It grows slowly when young and then the growth accelerates slightly as it ages. It consists of irregular and spreading branches, very layered, from which highly weeping lateral branches emerge. Its foliage is matte dark green, slightly lighter in spring. Its small leaves are scale-shaped and emit a resinous and aromatic scent when rubbed. Cones appear in March-April at the tips of the branches, maturing the following year. It has a shallow root system that does not tolerate transplantation well, weakens it against strong winds, and makes it difficult to associate with perennials.

Weeping Nootka Cypress, with its exceptional ornamental qualities and ease of cultivation, deserves to be planted more often. It thrives in cool, rich, slightly acidic soil, in a sunny to semi-shady exposure. Majestic and elegant, it can be planted as a specimen on a lawn, prominently displayed to enjoy its beautiful silhouette. The architectural qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over flowers. These plants structurally define a perennial bed, mark pathways and border terraces, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood or holly. The key is to play with volumes and colours.