Cryptomeria japonica Pouakai

Cryptomeria japonica Pouakai, commonly known as Japanese Cedar, is an attractive, narrow, upright conifer that is highly suitable for shelterbelts on good soils. This evergreen tree is noted for its red-bronze winter colouring, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. The soft, fragrant timber of Cryptomeria japonica Pouakai is weather and insect resistant, making it a popular forestry tree in Japan.

In the garden it serves as an excellent choice for smaller windbreaks or hedge requirements due to its moderate growth rate and bushy habit. Its compact, rounded top makes it ideal for creating structured, evergreen screens that provide year-round privacy and protection from the wind. This conifer thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is essential to avoid planting in dry, shallow, or waterlogged soils to ensure healthy growth. Cryptomeria japonica Pouakai is frost hardy, adding to its resilience in various garden settings.

When planting, space the trees 1-2m apart to form an effective windbreak or hedge. At maturity it can reach around 20m tall and 5m wide.