Japanese Cedar Data Sheet

• Common name: Japanese cedar

• Latin name: Cryptomeria japonica

• Genus: Cryptomeria

• Height: 70 m (230 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 6–8

• Conservation status: Near threatened

Cryptomeria japonica, commonly known as the Japanese cedar, is a conifer native to east Asia. Its range extends across China and Japan.

This tree is generally found at low to medium altitudes, mostly from 200 m (656 ft) to 1,800 m (5,900 ft).

Japanese cedar is a very large evergreen tree reaching a height of 70 m (230 ft). The trunk diameter can exceed 4 m. The bark is arranged in a vertical pattern and is a mix of red and dark brown. The needles are dark green and 1 cm long and grow in a spiral pattern along the branch. The cones are spherical, 2 cm diameter and contain 40 - 50 seeds.

It can live up to 1,000 years.

The Japanese cedar is closely related to the Giant Sequoia, which shares many of its characteristics.

The timber is used widely for house building as it has a good resistance to rot. This tree makes a statement in larger gardens due to its sheer size. This species is widely used for bonsai.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. Fill trays or pots with compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 25 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Keep compost damp, not soaking wet or dried out. Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks.

Post Germination

Once seedlings appear, keep them in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of damping off disease. Place in a bright location such as a windowsill. Ensure seedlings never dry out. Water logging should also be avoided; young trees hate wet feet. These seedlings are large and sturdy and will give you little hassle. They can be separated into their own 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruce.

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