Japanese red cedar - Cryptomeria japonica (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Japanese red cedar

Also known as: Japanese cedar

Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) is a tree native to Japan. Japanese red cedar has a notable fragrant and aesthetically pleasing color. Commercially, japanese red cedar is used for wooden construction materials for interior design. It can also be grown as a bonsai.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

48 m

Plant Height

3 m to 4 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Brown, Red, Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese red cedar

Distribution of Japanese red cedar

Distribution Map

Japanese red cedar is native to Central and South Japan. Here, it naturally grows in mountains and hills that see high levels of rainfall. Its introduction has occurred in China, parts of Europe, and New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist mountains, hills and forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese red cedar is an evergreen tree that offers year-round appeal with its attractive needle-like leaves, and bright reddish bark. It is a tall tree with quite a wide canopy, so it requires a large garden in which to grow. This is a very low-maintenance tree that is well-suited to cottage and informal garden styles. Japanese red cedar is often used as a specimen tree, but smaller plants can be used as hedges or as ornamental shrubs in rock gardens. Grow this tree near junipers or Japanese maples for great color and contrast.

Symbolism

Sacredness, the connection between humanity and nature

Interesting Facts

One of the oldest trees in the world, Jomon Sugi, is a japanese red cedar that stands 25 m high and lives on the Yakushima Island in Japan. Estimated to be between 2000 and 7000 years old, it is a living monument to Japan’s past and a silent witness to the lives of the village that once thrived there.

Name Story

Japanese red cedar||Sugi: This plant is the national tree of Japan and it is often planted around temples and shrines. Its tree bark is reddish-brown while the processed timber is red-colored. In Japan, Cryptomeria japonica is said to have a history of 2170-7200 years. As you can see, it has existed in Japanese culture for a long time and it is commonly called sugi and Japan. In other parts of the world, it is most often referred to as Japanese red cedar.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese red cedar, including the following common varieties :

Japanese red cedar 'Globosa Nana'Japanese red cedar 'Spiralis'Japanese red cedar 'Elegans Compacta'

Quickly Identify Japanese red cedar

Saber-shaped leaves curl inward, creating a textured appearance.

Male cones are round, 0.5-1 inch in diameter, clustered at branch tips.

Female cones transition from small, green spheres to woody brown cones.

Leaves are bright blue-green, awl-shaped, with a four-angled twist.

Trunk showcases a straight, columnar pose with vivid, exfoliating reddish-brown bark.

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Care Guide for Japanese red cedar

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist, temperate regions, japanese red cedar thrives with moderate moisture and consistent humidity. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing slight soil drying. Benefits from mulching in cooler climates to retain moisture during the active growth season.

Fertilize: Japanese red cedar benefits from a balanced fertilizer to promote vigorous growth, applied monthly in spring and biannually as growth stabilizes. Use one tablespoon per square foot, adjusting for plant age and size. Spread evenly around the drip line and water thoroughly after application.

Pruning: Japanese red cedar is an evergreen conifer that requires pruning in early to late winter for optimal health. Focus on dead or damaged branches and thinning crowded areas to improve air circulation. Regular pruning enhances vigor, reduces disease, and maintains the aesthetic and health of japanese red cedar.

Propagation: Japanese red cedar is ideally propagated in autumn and winter through layering, cutting, or sowing. This process is moderately difficult, with healthy root development indicating success. Providing optimal growing conditions enhances the likelihood of successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot japanese red cedar every 2-3 years before spring growth, using a large, deep container. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture and refrain from fertilizing for a month to prevent shock. This promotes stability and healthy development in japanese red cedar's new environment.

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