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Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Japanese Cedar

Beginner

Cryptomeria japonica

Endemic Japanese evergreen conifer. Known for straight trunk and dense needle leaves. Looks great as formal upright or twin trunk. Some varieties turn bronze in winter.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
Centuries
Size
20-80cm (bonsai size)
Watering
Fertilizer (regular)

About

Cryptomeria is a monotypic genus of conifer in the cypress family Cupressaceae. It includes only one species, Cryptomeria japonica. It is considered to be endemic to Japan, where it is known as Sugi . The tree is also called Japanese cedar or Japanese redwood in English. It has been extensively introduced, and cultivated for wood production on the Azores and elsewhere.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

Japan

Lifespan

Centuries

Size

20-80cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

-5〜35℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Fertilizer (regular)

Growing Tips

Placement

Outdoor sun to partial shade. Very cold hardy

Watering

Loves water. Never let dry out. Water morning and evening in summer

Styling

Formal upright is standard. Pinch new shoots to shape

Notes

Weak to dry wind. Watch for leaf scorch

BeginnerConiferFormal uprightAutumn color

Japanese Cedar FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Japanese Cedar?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Japanese Cedar?
A

The ideal temperature for Japanese Cedar is -5〜35℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Cedar?
A

The average lifespan of Japanese Cedar is Centuries. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Japanese Cedar get?
A

The mature size of Japanese Cedar is 20-80cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Japanese Cedar?
A

Japanese Cedar: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (regular). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Japanese Cedar?
A

The price of Japanese Cedar varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Growing Specifications

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L.f.) D.Don

Synonyms: Cryptomeria araucarioides Henkel & W.Hochst., Cryptomeria japonica variegata-argentea Jacob-Makoy, Cryptomeria compacta Beissn., Cupressus japonica Thunb. ex L.f., Cryptomeria mairei (H.Lév.) Nakai, Cryptomeria lycopodioides Carrière

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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