CRYPTOMERIA japonica ‘Kyara Gold’ (R) is a novelty. This yellow Japanese cedar (vernacular name) develops bright yellow shoots in spring that remain yellow throughout the seasons. In addition, these shoots have a twisted appearance. The plant grows in a narrow columnar shape. It is truly a magnificent conifer that remains beautiful all year round.
How to grow CRYPTOMERIA japonica ‘Kyara Gold’ (R)
Find a spot for this conifer in sun or partial shade. It can fit into even mall gardens, given its extremely low need for space. It is a plant that resists very well to temperatures below -20 °C. This yellow Japanese cedar supports all pH levels as well as light, normal and heavy soils. CRYPTOMERIA japonica ‘Kyara Gold’ (R) is suitable for beginners and experienced gardeners.
History and Origin
CRYPTOMERIA japonica is considered endemic to Japan, where it is also called Sugi. China has been growing it for so long that you would think it originated there. Moreover, the Chinese have selected distinct varieties (CRYPTOMERIA japonica var. sinensis or CRYPTOMERIA fortunei) for ornamental purposes and the production of construction wood. However, research has shown that they are no different from those found in the wilds of Japan. So far, there is no evidence that this species once occurred in the wild in China. Nevertheless, one can find 1000-year-old trees there.
In the middle of the 19ᵉ century, the Portuguese strongly introduced it to the Azores (autonomous region of Portugal) where it is cultivated for the production of wood. It is currently the most cultivated species in the archipelago. It occupies about 20% of the total land area.
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