Sekka hinoki cypress
IntermediateChamaecyparis obtusa 'Sekka'
A hinoki selection made for bonsai and a shohin staple. 'Sekka' here means foliage even harder and more crinkled than ordinary yatsubusa types, packing into tight mounds with an ancient, fossil-like look.
About
Sekka hinoki is a selection of hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) chosen for bonsai and a staple of shohin collections. In bonsai usage 'sekka' denotes foliage that is even harder and more crinkled than ordinary yatsubusa forms; the tiny leaves pack densely and give an ancient, almost fossilised feel. Branches crowd easily and the foliage forms tight, mineral-looking mounds like a model diorama. Where Tsuyama hinoki spreads fan-shaped sprays with rounded tips, Sekka's leaves crinkle into compact clumps. One bonsai guide notes that the leaves on vigorous shoots are less crinkled and pointed, suggesting sawara-cypress (C. pisifera) character, so sources differ on whether it is a pure hinoki form. 'Sekka' is also a botanical term for fasciation (flattened, ribbon-like stems), but in this bonsai plant the point is the crinkled, dense foliage. Crowded branches trap moisture and die back inside, so regular pinching and thinning to keep air moving is the key to keeping it healthy. Bonsai nurseries stock it steadily as shohin material.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (a bonsai selection; little documented about its origin)
Lifespan
Little data for the cultivar
Size
Slow-growing; kept as shohin or mini bonsai
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (solid feed in spring and autumn)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Bright part shade to sun, avoiding harsh summer sun. Its dense foliage needs a well-ventilated spot
Watering
Likes water: water thoroughly when the surface dries, 2–3 times a day in summer
Temperature & overwintering
Cold-hardy, but frost bronzes the foliage; protect small pots from freezing and frost
Soil & repotting
Free-draining akadama-based mix. Repot March–April, about every 2 years when young
Fertilizer
Solid organic fertilizer in spring and autumn
Pruning & styling
Branches crowd quickly—pinch and thin often. Remove vigorous shoots bearing pointed, non-sekka foliage
Pests & cautions
Stuffy interiors cause dieback and spider mites; keep air moving and mist in dry spells
Sekka hinoki cypress FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sekka hinoki cypress?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sekka hinoki cypress?
Sekka hinoki cypress: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (solid feed in spring and autumn). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sekka hinoki cypress?
The price of Sekka hinoki cypress varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Sekka' (Siebold & Zucc.) Endl.
Synonyms: Chamaecyparis obtusa var. formosana (Hayata) Rehder, Chamaepeuce obtusa (Siebold & Zucc.) Zucc., Chamaecyparis tsatsumi (Slavin) Slavin
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. Not a registered variety under the Plant Variety Protection Act (no entry in the MAFF database, checked Sept 2026).
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search) / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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