Chamaecyparis pisifera Boulevard
Chamaecyparis pisifera Boulevard is a distinctive evergreen conifer with soft, feathery foliage in a cool silvery-blue tone, bringing year-round colour and texture to the garden. Its naturally neat, upright pyramidal form makes it a reliable structural plant that looks good in every season.
It works beautifully as a specimen in borders, in mixed shrub plantings, or repeated for rhythm along paths and driveways. It also suits contemporary courtyards and classic garden schemes, and can be grown in a large container where it will hold its shape with minimal fuss.
Plant in full sun to light shade in fertile, free-draining soil that stays lightly moist. Avoid waterlogged sites, and water during dry spells while plants are establishing, especially through Summer. Allow around 1-1.5 m between plants so the foliage can develop evenly and air can circulate.
Mature size is typically about 2-3 m tall and 1-1.5 m wide, forming a dense, tapering column of silvery-blue foliage.
Trimming: Minimal trimming needed. In late spring or early summer, lightly tip-prune to maintain a neat, conical shape and encourage denser growth. Remove any dead, brown inner sprays and any crossing shoots. Avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood, as it won’t reliably reshoot.
Fertilising: Feed in early spring with a slow-release general shrub/conifer fertiliser. On poorer soils, a second light feed in mid–late spring can help. Avoid heavy feeding late in the season.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment (first 12-18 months), especially through dry summers. Once established, water deeply during prolonged dry periods as this helps prevent browning and stress. Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool, keeping mulch clear of the trunk.
Pest control: Check for spider mites in hot, dry weather (fine webbing, speckled/bronzed foliage) and hose the foliage to reduce numbers; use a suitable miticide if severe. Watch for scale on stems and treat with horticultural oil, ensuring thorough coverage.
Disease management:
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Root rot (poor drainage): Thinning foliage, dull colour, dieback, and persistently wet soil. Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and don’t allow mulch to sit against the trunk.
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Canker/dieback: Localised browning and dead shoots. Prune out affected growth back into healthy wood, disinfect tools between cuts, and improve airflow around the plant.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
