Yatsubusa Japanese cedar
IntermediateCryptomeria japonica 'Yatsubusa'
A general name for dwarf yatsubusa forms of Japanese cedar—almost all small cedar bonsai are this type. It buds vigorously and gains an aged look through pinching alone, but plants sold under the name vary in foliage.
About
Yatsubusa sugi is a trade name for dwarf, fine-leaved forms of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica). It is a collective term for dwarf types rather than a single cultivar, and bonsai guides note that foliage differs between nurseries and suppliers selling under the same name. Japanese cedar is an endemic evergreen timber tree growing to about 50 m, but many cultivars exist, including dwarf ones such as 'Nana' (chabo-sugi) with short, dense shoots forming a rounded crown. Yatsubusa cedar is valued for its fine, primitive-looking needles and trunks that age quickly; pinching and cutting back alone can create a miniature of a great tree. Being upright by nature it suits formal upright designs, as well as slanting, twin-trunk, clump and forest plantings. Nearly all material is produced from cuttings or layers, and cuttings, which rarely form taproots, suit bonsai well. New buds appear throughout the growing season, so constant fine pinching is needed. Judge a plant by how fine and dense its foliage actually is rather than by the name. It is widely sold from mini to shohin size.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (sugi is endemic; a collective name for dwarf forms propagated by cuttings)
Lifespan
Little data for the dwarf forms (the species itself is long-lived)
Size
Dwarf; easy to keep as mini or shohin bonsai
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (April–November, except the rainy season and midsummer)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sun to bright part shade with good airflow. Small trees suffer in strong summer sun and dry winter air—move them seasonally
Watering
Likes water: 2–3 times daily in summer, 1–2 in autumn, every 2–3 days in winter. Drying out causes dieback
Temperature & overwintering
Somewhat tender; repeated frost browns the foliage (it recovers in spring). Shelter from dry winter wind and frost
Soil & repotting
Free-draining mix; repot in April once it is warm, every 2–3 years when young, moving gradually to shallow pots
Fertilizer
Heavy feeder—lower branches die back when hungry. Feed organic fertilizer April–November, except the rainy season and midsummer
Pruning & styling
Pinch constantly April–October; cut heavy branches in late Feb–March. Wire loosely (bark is thin) in March–June and September
Pests & cautions
Crowding invites spider mites, sooty mould and needle blight; thin in autumn. Remove flower buds on young plants before they open
Yatsubusa Japanese cedar FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Yatsubusa Japanese cedar?
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 Yatsubusa Japanese cedar?
Yatsubusa Japanese cedar: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (April–November, except the rainy season and midsummer). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Yatsubusa Japanese cedar?
The price of Yatsubusa Japanese cedar 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
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. 'Yatsubusa sugi' is a collective name for dwarf forms, not the name of a registered variety.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Find listings for this species
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