Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Reis Dwarf' / Reis Dwarf Hinoki cypress

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Reis Dwarf' is a narrow, irregular-upright dwarf selection of Hinoki cypress that features tight, twisted, congested tufts of bright green foliage. Older plants tend to regularly shed dried brown foliage throughout the growing season, meaning it looks best when cleaned out by hand, snipping off the dead branches with small shears. The result, over time, is a very desirable “pom pom” effect that can be quite eye-catching in a formal setting or Japanese garden. Snipping off the whip-like leaders of lateral shoots will encourage this effect. The plant works well in containers and can make an interesting Bonsai subject.

After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 4 feet (1.3 m) tall by 2 feet (60 cm) wide, an annual growth rate of 4 to 6 inches (10 - 15 cm). Plants that are allowed to grow "free range" rather than take part in a routine shearing/pruning program will grow much larger and somewhat rangier. 'Reis Dwarf' is definitely best for the "hands-on" gardener.

This cultivar originated as a seedling selected in the mid-1970s by Joe Reis of Merritt, Long Island, New York.