Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Fernspray Gold' is a medium-sized, upright growing selection of Hinoki cypress with a dense pyramidal growth habit and beautifully twisted golden, fern-like, flattened branches. It is similar to C. obtusa 'Tetragona Aurea' but has less orange and more lemon coloration. It also holds its branches more horizontal than 'Tetragona Aurea,' takes well to pruning, and grows much slower. After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 6 feet (2 m) tall and half as wide, an annual rate growth rate of 6 - 8 inches (15 - 20 cm). This selection always adds colorful interest and excitement in the landscape.
This cultivar was introduced to the nursery trade in 1970 by Duncan and Davies Nursery, New Plymouth, New Zealand. Its precise origin is speculative at best, resembling plants raised by Barry Blackman listed as 'Kojolcohiba' in the Duncan and Davies catalogs. In actuality, it is intermediate between 'Kojolcohiba' and 'Tetragona Aurea.'
