Cunninghamia konishii 'Little Leo' is a miniature selection of Taiwan coffin fir. Its structure is that of a congested, flattened cushion with tiny, prickly needles, measuring 0.25 inch (60 mm) long; and twisted branchlets. In the winter, in colder climates the foliage will assume a bronze cast, particularly in older foliage. After 10 years in the garden, a mature specimen will be about 12 to 18 inches (30 - 45 cm) wide and 6 inches (15 cm) tall, suggesting and annual rate of growth of about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 - 4 cm). 'Little Leo' shares a trait common with all Cunninghamia in that it will retain a good deal of dead internal foliage that should be cleaned out annually to maintain a healthy attractive plant.
This cultivar originated as a special seedling selected by Leo Koelewijn (Coolwyn) of Monbulk, Australia and introduced to the nursery trade by his family nursery in 2001. 'Little Leo' was one of three plants selected in 2013 for inclusion into the ACS Collectors' Conifer of the Year Program.
