Cupressus nootkatensis 'Van den Akker' / Van den Akker Nootka cypress

Cupressus nootkatensis 'Van den Akker' is a large-growing, upright, strictly weeping selection of Nootka cypress growing with nearly all branches and lacy green foliage cascading tightly down the main trunk. As plants mature, they will develop aberrant side branches which can be retained or pruned away depending on the desires of the grower. After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 10 feet (3 m) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide, an annual growth rate of nearly 12 inches (30 cm).

This cultivar originated as a select variant of C. nootkatensis 'Pendula,' introduced by a Washington state landscaper, Mr. Van den Akker. Buchholz and Buchholz Nursery of Gaston, Oregon later brought this conifer to a point of prominence in the American nursery trade.

Cupressus nootkatensis 'Van den Akker' — a closeup of foliage detail.
Photo by Bill Barger

Comments

Peter Rostenberg

re: Cupressus nootkaensis 'Van den Akker': how much shade can it tolerate & must it have damp soil ("wet feet")?
Thanks,
Peter

Reply

Maxwell Cohn

it'll tolerate quite a bit of shade. Just keep in mind that, grown in shade, plants will have sparse foliage and spindly growth.

Wet feet aren't required, but tolerate damper conditions well. Good drainage is still a must.

Reply

Julie

What are aberrant side branches on acupressure nootkatensis ‘Van den Akker’ Alaskan Cedar ?

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