Lawson Cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind exposure but prefers shelter from extreme winter gusts

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Watering Water deeply during prolonged dry spells; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil

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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool, moist climates and tolerates moderate summer heat

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Leaf: Scale-like, flattened sprays; blue-green to dark green, with golden/silvery cultivars available
Cones: Small globose brown cones, 8–12 mm diameter, maturing in 1–2 years
Bark: Reddish-brown, fibrous, peeling in vertical strips

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Watering

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote steady growth without excessive foliage softening

Eggshell powder top-dress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base and water in to avoid nutrient burn

Pruning

Prune in late winter to shape; remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches
Trim new spring growth to maintain desired form; avoid cutting into old, woody stems that will not regrow
Thin dense inner foliage to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal disease

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans from ingestion or contact

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental tree for hedges, screens, and formal gardens; high-quality timber used for construction and boatbuilding