Considered a sacred tree in its native Japan (like Hinoki Cypress), this slow-growing tree is a popular ornamental species in north-west Europe. Its species epithet means ‘pea-bearing’, referring to its small cones.

Natural range is limited to damp valleys and lower slopes of mountains of Honshu and Kyushu, Japan.

Monoecious.

Moderately tall (35–45m). Bark red-grown, fibrous, vertically fissured. Foliage varies considerable with age, initially feathery becoming scale-like, in flat sprays, with pointed tips. Female cones globose, 4–8mm.

Moist but well-drained soils, thriving best in slightly acidic conditions. Can be clipped.

No notable associations where introduced.

No specific threats.

Its durable, citrus-scented timber is highly valued in Japan; elsewhere it is usually only ornamental. Many cultivars vary in foliage colour and form. Dwarf varieties and those keeping the juvenile feathery foliage (such as ‘Plumosa’) are especially popular in urban and formal gardens, and sometimes churchyards.