Cryptomeria Black Dragon #7
Cryptomeria japonica ‘Black Dragon’ is a slow-growing, compact evergreen conifer with a dense, upright-mounded habit. Its foliage is dark green to nearly black, forming soft, needle-like sprays that provide a dramatic, architectural presence in gardens. This cultivar maintains a small, manageable size, making it ideal for rock gardens, container plantings, bonsai, or small landscape accents. ‘Black Dragon’ is highly valued for its striking color, slow growth, and refined form, adding year-round structure and texture to formal or ornamental garden designs.
Hardiness Zones:
USDA Zones 5–8Mature Size:
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Typically 3–5 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide
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Slow-growing, dense, upright-mounded habit
Light Requirements:
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Full sun to partial shade
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Full sun promotes the darkest foliage color and compact growth
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Tolerates light shade, but too much shade → slower growth and less dense form
Water Requirements:
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Moderate moisture
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Prefers well-drained, acidic soil
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Regular watering during establishment promotes healthy growth
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Once established, moderately drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture
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