Cryptomeria japonica ‘Yoshino’, commonly known as Yoshino Cryptomeria or Japanese Cedar, is a fast-growing, upright evergreen prized for its dense, pyramidal form and fine-textured, bright green foliage. More compact and uniform than the species, ‘Yoshino’ is ideal for large privacy screens, windbreaks, or stately specimen plantings. It typically grows 30 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide, offering year-round structure and color with minimal care. Though visually appealing and adaptable, it is a non-native species and does not provide significant habitat value for native pollinators or wildlife.

Why choose Yoshino Cryptomeria:

• Dense, upright habit: Naturally pyramidal and perfect for screening or formal accents

• Fast-growing evergreen: Adds height and structure quickly with minimal pruning

• Soft, year-round color: Bright green foliage remains attractive through winter

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Grows best in full sun

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid prolonged soggy conditions

• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune as needed to shape or reduce size

Designs for your garden:

• Tall screens or hedges: Excellent for privacy or wind protection

• Specimen plant: Strong vertical interest and texture in large landscape beds

• Backdrops: A handsome evergreen backdrop for flowering shrubs or native borders

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native species: Provides limited food or shelter for native wildlife

• Not a host plant: Does not support native insects, birds, or caterpillars

• Pair with natives: Combine with native shrubs and perennials to support biodiversity

Looking for native alternatives?

Juniperus virginiana – Eastern Red Cedar: A tough native evergreen that supports birds with berries and tolerates dry, poor soils.
Ilex opaca – American Holly: Native evergreen with glossy foliage and red berries, providing cover and winter food for wildlife.
Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’ – Shamrock Inkberry: A dense, compact native evergreen shrub ideal for hedging and ecological landscaping.