Discover everything you need to know about the Weeping Alaskan Cypress, from its unique look to easy care tips for your garden.
Hi there! I’m Ashley Scott, and I’ve been digging into gardening for over 10 years now. If you’re like me, you’re always hunting for that one plant that turns your yard into something special. Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorites: the Weeping Alaskan Cypress. Picture a tree that looks like it’s shedding happy tears, with branches flowing down like a gentle waterfall. That’s this beauty! Whether you’re a gardening newbie or a pro, this guide’s got everything you need to know about this stunning evergreen.
What is a Weeping Alaskan Cypress?
So, what’s the deal with the Weeping Alaskan Cypress? Known scientifically as Chamaecyparis nootkatensis ‘Pendula’, this evergreen conifer hails from the misty Pacific Northwest. It’s got these soft, fan-shaped needles in a deep gray-green shade and drooping branches that give it a one-of-a-kind weeping vibe. It’s like nature’s version of a living sculpture!
In the wild, these trees can shoot up to 100 feet tall, but in your garden, they usually settle around 30 to 45 feet. Don’t worry if that sounds big—there are smaller options like the Dwarf Weeping Alaskan Cedar for cozier spaces. Plus, it’s pretty chill to care for, which is a huge bonus for folks like us who love plants but not endless upkeep.
Why Choose a Weeping Alaskan Cypress?
Why should you give this tree a spot in your yard? Here’s why I’m hooked:
- Eye-Catching Looks: Those weeping branches make it a total standout.
- Easygoing Nature: Once it’s settled in, it doesn’t demand much from you.
- Fits Anywhere: Works in big landscapes or small city gardens.
- Tough Against Pests: It shrugs off most bugs and diseases like a champ.
I’ll never forget planting my first one. It was like dropping a piece of art in my backyard—every glance out the window felt like a treat.
How to Grow and Care for Your Weeping Alaskan Cypress
Planting
Ready to get your Weeping Alaskan Cypress in the ground? It loves cool, damp climates and moist, well-drained soil. If you’re in USDA zones 4-7, you’re golden. Here’s how I do it:
- Pick a Spot: Full sun or a bit of shade works. In hot areas, some afternoon shade keeps it happy.
- Prep the Soil: Aim for slightly acidic, well-draining soil. I mix in peat moss if mine’s off.
- Dig Right: Make the hole twice as wide as the root ball, but keep it shallow—top of the roots level with the ground.
- Water It In: Give it a big drink after planting to settle those roots.
Watering
This tree can handle dry spells once it’s established, but for the first couple of years, keep the soil moist. I water mine deeply once a week, more if it’s super dry. It’s like raising a kid—extra care early on pays off later.
Fertilizing
No need to overdo it with food. I toss on a slow-release fertilizer like 10-10-10 in spring, and that’s it. Follow the label, and you’re set.
Pruning
Here’s the cool part: you barely need to prune! Its weeping shape is its magic, so I just snip off dead bits in early spring if they show up. Low effort, big reward.
Common Problems and Solutions
The Weeping Alaskan Cypress is tough, but it’s not invincible. Here’s what I’ve run into and how I handle it:
- Spider Mites: These little jerks can yellow the needles. A hard spray from the hose usually sends them packing, or I use insecticidal soap if they’re stubborn.
- Root Rot: Too much water can drown it. Good drainage is key—don’t let it sit in a puddle.
- Bagworms: Rare, but if I spot them, I pluck them off or hit them with an insecticide.
Once, I had spider mites creep in, but a quick blast with water fixed it. Keep an eye out, and you’ll be fine.
Different Varieties to Consider
The classic Weeping Alaskan Cypress (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis ‘Pendula’) is my go-to, but there are other fun options:
- ‘Green Arrow’: Tall and skinny—20 feet high, 2 feet wide. Great for tight spots!
- ‘Glauca Pendula’: Blue-green needles that pop in any garden.
- Dwarf Weeping Alaskan Cedar: Stays under 10 feet, perfect for patios or small yards.
Each one’s got its own flair, so pick what vibes with your space.
Weeping Alaskan Cypress Size and Growth Rate
How big does it get? In your yard, expect 30 to 45 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. It’s a slowpoke, growing about 12 inches a year. That’s nice—it won’t crowd you out too fast. I learned the hard way planting one near my driveway. Slow growth saved me some hassle!
Weeping Alaskan Cypress Problems
Beyond pests, here are a couple more things to watch:
- Winter Burn: Cold winds can brown the needles. I water well before winter and sometimes use an anti-desiccant spray.
- Salt Damage: Road salt can hurt it, so plant away from splash zones if you’re near treated roads.
Weeping Alaskan Cypress Price
How much will it set you back? Depends on size:
- Small (2-3 feet): $30-$50
- Medium (4-6 feet): $70-$100
- Large (7+ feet): $150+
I snag mine from local nurseries or online spots like Monrovia. Worth every penny!
Conclusion
The Weeping Alaskan Cypress isn’t just a tree—it’s a vibe. It brings grace and drama to your garden with minimal fuss. Whether you want a centerpiece or a low-key evergreen, it’s got you covered. After 10 years of gardening, I can say it’s one of the best additions I’ve made.
Ready to grab one? Swing by your local nursery or check out my guide to How to Choose the Right Plants on my site. You’ll love having this beauty around.
FAQs
Q: How fast does a Weeping Alaskan Cypress grow?
A: Slow and steady—about 12 inches a year. Good things take time!
Q: Can I plant it in a pot?
A: Not the best idea—it gets too big. Try a Dwarf Weeping Alaskan Cedar or something like the Dwarf Hinoki Cypress for containers.
Q: Is it deer-resistant?
A: Yep! Deer usually steer clear, which is awesome if you’ve got them roaming around.