Cryptomeria japonica aka Japanese Red Cedar
Taxonomy ID: 5207
Cryptomeria japonica, also known as Sugi or Japanese cedar, is a slender, pyramidal evergreen conifer that belongs to the cypress family Cupressaceae. It is a monotypic genus that includes only one species that is native to forested areas in Japan and China, where it grows up to 150 feet tall with an 8-foot trunk diameter. It is also called Japanese redwood in English and is the national tree of Japan, where it is often planted at temples and shrines.
The tree has tiered horizontal branching that is slightly pendulous at the tips. Its sharply-pointed, awl-shaped, fragrant needles are green to blue-green in color and grow spirally arranged on the branches. The foliage is soft to the touch and may bronze in cold winters. Spherical fruiting cones appear at the shoot ends, and the reddish-brown bark exfoliates in strips. It is a prized timber tree in its native habitat and has been extensively introduced and cultivated for wood production on the Azores.
Japanese cedar is easy to grow and has a graceful habit, reaching 50-70 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide with a conical to pyramidal shape. It prefers rich, moist, well-drained, acidic soils, and can tolerate conditions from sun to partial shade. It is resistant to damage by deer and is slightly salt-tolerant. Despite its name, it is unrelated to true cedars (Cedrus).
Common names
Japanese Red Cedar, Japanese Cedar, CryptomeriaMore information about Japanese Red Cedar
How difficult is it to take care of Japanese Red Cedar
Caring for Japanese Red Cedar is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the growth pattern and size of Japanese Red Cedar?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Japanese Red Cedar as it grows vertically.
What is the region of origin of Japanese Red Cedar
Japanese Red Cedar’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan.
What are the water needs for Japanese Red Cedar
Japanese Red Cedar should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Japanese Red Cedar
Japanese Red Cedar loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Japanese Red Cedar
Japanese Red Cedar requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Japanese Cedar is always in the right place to thrive.
How to fertilize Japanese Red Cedar
The Japanese Red Cedar is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is Japanese Red Cedar toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
