Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Silver Threads' is a dwarf, conical selection of Port Orford Cedar. This cultivar is distinctive with its green juvenile foliage that has white and golden flecks all over the plant. The overall effect is that of a sparkling jewel in the landscape.
Kelvin Lawrence Nurseries, UK found this cultivar as a variegated sport on a specimen of 'Ellwood's Gold' and introduced it sometime in the early 1980s.
Despite large areas of white foliage, Silver Threads does fine in full sun. The foliage never seems to burn. As is true of the species, this a good choice for dry, well-drained locations. Like many Port Orford Cedars, 'Silver Threads' is susceptible to Phytophthera lateralis, a water mold known to attack and rot the roots. If the gardener lives in a location where phytophthera is a threat, he or she should seek out specimens grafted onto Phytophthera-resistant (DR) rootstock.
