Chamaecyparis thyoides 'Heatherbun' is a small, rounded shrub-form of Atlantic white cypress with persistent juvenile pale Blue-green foliage that turns plum-purple in winter. The purple color is very striking against snow and provides winter color where most plants wash out. This plant has a notable "Achilles heel" - it should be tied or protected from snow load in winter as it will cause plant to open, possibly splitting the trunk. As with all Chamaecyparis thyoides this specimen will tolerate wetter soil conditions.
After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 1.5 - 2 feet (50 - 60 cm) tall and wide, and annual growth rate of 2 to 3 inches (5 - 7/5 cm), making smaller and denser in structure that the similar cultivar, Ch. thyoides 'Ericoides.'
In spite of being a fine plant that has been well known for a long time in the nursery trade, 'Heatherbun' is of unknown origin. It is occasionally seen listed under the name, 'Purple Heather.'
