Chamaecyparis pisifera 'filifera Aurea'

Joe Mc

The golden threadleaf cypress.
My local garden center has several in their discount area for $5.00/1 gallon, as well as some spreading Juniperus chinensis, unknown cultivar.

Both species were somewhat leggy but there are a few with interesting trunks.

My question is wether or not these species are suitable for bonsai, and if they are can be convinced to back bud on old wood, as the plants are somewhat leggy.

Thanks,
Joe Mc

Advertisement

TreeBay

False cypress can make interesting bonsai but they are more demanding in their care and regular pinching is required to maintain an attractive appearance. These are trees that submit to being bonsai, where some more common species really thrive as bonsai, if that makes any sense.

There's quite a group of them that include Sawara Cypress, Hinoki Cypress and Boulevard Cypress, among others. In my experience, they don't bud back very readily.

I believe you'll find some false cypress in the Museum

http://pictures.bonsaitalk.com/key/Chamaecyparis

__________________

Want to be a seller on bonsaiAUCTIONS? Get authorized today!

bonsaiTALK: Over 100,005.36 Megabytes Served this Month!

Joe Mc

If they don't bud back very well, then the ones at the garden centre may be too leggy to be useful.
However, having little experience with conifers, I may purchase one or two to practice pruning and wiring with.

Thanks,
Joe Mc