Evergreen
Golden Mop false cypress
Chamaecyparis pisifera 'Golden Mop'
Golden Mop false cypress makes a loose evergreen mound of golden threads, offering year-round contrast to darker leaves and upright conifers. Typical plants are often 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, but older specimens can become larger. Leave room for the branches to drape rather than forcing a clipped ball beside a narrow path. Sun generally strengthens the yellow color, with partial shade useful in harsher exposure. In Southwest Washington, provide moist, well-drained soil, summer establishment water, and airflow around the foliage. Prune lightly within green growth, and investigate brown tips before assuming they need a particular treatment.
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At a glance
- Mature height
- Usually 3–5 ft; can be larger with age
- Mature spread
- Usually 3–5 ft; can be larger with age
- Light
- Sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- Confirm nursery hardiness for the selected plant
The right plant, the right place
Make room for something good.
The rounded golden mound adds foliage color to a mixed conifer border, foundation bed, or rock garden. Avoid crowding the hanging shoots as the plant fills out.
Where to plant
Allow at least the commonly listed 3–5 feet of height and width, with additional space for older growth. Keep the mound away from narrow paths and confined entry beds.
Through the seasons
Golden, threadlike foliage remains through winter. Good light helps maintain the yellow color.
Southwest Washington gardens
Give it a good start.
Provide summer water during establishment and avoid soil that stays soggy through winter. Keep neighboring plants from crowding the mound, especially where wet weather prolongs moisture on the foliage.
Soil, drainage & water
Moist, well-drained soil supports growth. Check the root area during dry weather and avoid compacted sites where water collects, rather than increasing irrigation whenever the foliage looks stressed.
A little care goes a long way
Growing well, season after season.
Prune lightly if shaping is needed and retain the naturally hanging shoots. Avoid cutting into bare interior wood; adequate planting space reduces the need to force a smaller outline.
Know what to look for
Common growing concerns.
Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.
Brown foliage or tips
Sections of golden foliage may turn brown from moisture stress, foliage disease, or damage to individual tips.
Help your plant thrive
Check root moisture and air circulation, then inspect affected tips. Identify ongoing damage before choosing pest or disease treatment.
Over-pruned growth
Deep cuts can leave bare interior branches exposed and disrupt the outline of the mound.
Help your plant thrive
Leave enough space for the plant to broaden. Limit pruning to light shaping rather than repeatedly cutting back into older bare wood.
A little more inspiration
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