Japanese Cedar 'Little Champion'
Scientific Name: Cryptomeria japonica 'Little Champion'
Plant Family: Cupressaceae
Native Region: Japan (species native), cultivar developed for horticulture
Brief Description
A dwarf, evergreen conifer with a naturally globose to dome-shaped habit. It features soft, feathery, bright green needles that often turn a bronze or plum color in winter.
Care Instructions
Plant in a sunny to partially shaded spot with moist, well-draining soil. Provide regular water during the first few growing seasons to establish a deep root system and avoid acidic fertilizers unless soil testing suggests a need.
Medicinal Value
We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily)
Watering
Moderate; needs consistent moisture and does not tolerate long periods of drought. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained loamy soil; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Hardiness Zone
5 through 9
Growth Habit
Dwarf evergreen shrub; grows slowly to a height and spread of 2-3 feet over 10 years.
Bloom Season
Non-flowering (produces small, inconspicuous cones)
Toxicity
Generally low toxicity to humans and pets, though ingestion may cause mild digestive upset.
Propagation
Tip cuttings taken in late summer or fall; seed propagation is possible for the species but cultivars may not come true from seed.
Common Pests & Issues
Resistant to most pests, but can suffer from needle blight or leaf spot in overly humid, poorly ventilated areas. Spider mites may occur in very dry conditions.
Similar Species
Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana' which grows larger, or Chamaecyparis obtusa (Hinoki Cypress) which has flat, scale-like foliage rather than feathery needles.
Interesting Facts
The genus name comes from the Greek 'kryptos' (hidden) and 'meros' (part). In Japan, the species is known as Sugi and is the national tree.
Created At: 2026-05-05T20:00:06.803968