Cryptomeria Radicans 7G

Cryptomeria japonica 'Radicans' is a robust, fast-growing selection of Japanese cedar with columnar to pyramidal growth habit. It has dense, blue-green, feathery foliage that retains its color in winter with less bronzing than other Japanese cedars. After 10 years, ‘Radicans’ grows to heights of 30 to 40 feet (10-12 m) tall (sometimes up to 50 feet/15m) and 15 to 20 feet (5 - 6 m) wide. It is less prone to tip blight and leaf spot than other members of the species.

This cultivar originated in 1941 as a plant selected for the forestry industry in Japan. In 1941, Takenoshin Nakai (1882–1952) made a formal botanical study on the plant, hoping to be able to classify it as a specific variety of the species (Cryptomeria japonica var. radicans). Apparently peer revue determined that there was not enough distinction from the type to warrant such classification, rendering the results of the study synonymous with the typical species. "radicans" translates in "rooting" in the Latin language.

Culture

Best grown in moist, rich, fertile, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade. Soils should not be allowed to dry out. Site in a location protected from drying winter winds.

Genus name comes from the Greek krypto meaning to hide and meris meaning a part in reference to the flower parts being hidden.