Russian Cypress - Microbiota decussate - PNW Plants

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Russian Cypress
Scientific name: Microbiota decussate

Taxonomy
Family: Cupressaceae
Type: Groundcovers evergreen
Native: NO
Plant Requirements
Zone: 2 to 8
Sun: Partial shade
Moisture: Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height: 2 ft
Width: 12 ft

Additional Characteristics
Trees Small lot suitable
Flowering tree
Safe for beneath power lines
Fruit Showy
Edible

Leaves Good Fall color
Leaves fragrant
Gold foliage
Evergreen
Bark Showy

Wildlife value Attract hummingbirds
Attract butterflies
Attract birds
Poisonous Foliage
Fruit
Description As an alternative to all the different types of junipers, Russian Cypress is an interesting groundcover whose foliage turns bronze to burgundy in winter when grown in the sun. Also know as Russian arborvitae.

Morphology:
A low, spreading evergreen coniferous groundcover that grows to a mature height of 2’ and a width of up to 12’. It bears needles which have the scale-like flattened pattern of Arborvitae (hence one of the common names).

Adaptation:
Sun to partial shade; tolerates dry soil as well as a range of soil types, but needs good drainage . The brown "evergreen" foliage color in the winter months may appear dead to some individuals.

Pests:
None reported.

Contact Information

Washington State University
Pullman WA 99164-6420

Phone: (360) 546-9107
Email: brunc@wsu.edu

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