Hinoki Cypress ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ 20/40cm (3L)

Hinoki Cypress ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ – Chamaecyparis obtusa is a delightful dwarf conifer that brings year-round golden colour and soft texture to gardens. This charming cultivar features dense, bright yellow-green foliage that forms a compact, rounded shape with an irresistibly tactile quality. The foliage consists of tiny, scale-like leaves arranged in flattened sprays, creating a plush appearance that perfectly justifies its endearing name. Partnered with the standard green ‘Teddy Bear’, this yellow variant offers gardeners the opportunity to create beautiful contrasts in conifer collections or mixed borders.

The golden-yellow colouration is most vibrant during the growing season and in cooler months, providing a cheerful focal point when many other plants have faded. Unlike some yellow conifers that can scorch in full sun, ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ maintains its colour well whilst developing slightly bronzed tones during winter, adding seasonal interest. The compact growth habit makes this cultivar particularly suitable for small gardens, rockeries, container displays, and front-of-border positions where its appealing texture can be appreciated up close.

This slow-growing conifer typically forms a neat, rounded mound without requiring regular pruning, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice. The naturally dense branching creates a solid form that provides structure throughout the year, working beautifully alongside heathers, dwarf rhododendrons, and other compact evergreens. In containers, ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ performs exceptionally well, bringing colour and texture to patios, balconies, and courtyard gardens where space is limited.

The Hinoki Cypress originates from Japan, where it has been cultivated for centuries and holds cultural significance. The species is renowned for producing high-quality timber with a distinctive fragrance, though ornamental cultivars like ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ are grown purely for their decorative qualities. This particular selection was bred for its compact size and bright colouration, making it far more garden-friendly than its towering forest relatives.

Care Guide

Plant ‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. This conifer prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions and benefits from mulching to retain moisture around the roots. Choose a position in full sun to partial shade; whilst the plant tolerates some shade, the best golden colour develops with good light exposure.

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system, and continue watering during prolonged dry spells, particularly for container-grown specimens. In spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser formulated for conifers or acid-loving plants to support healthy growth and maintain vibrant foliage colour.

This cultivar requires minimal pruning due to its naturally compact habit. If necessary, lightly trim wayward shoots in late spring to maintain the desired shape, but avoid cutting into old wood as this may not regenerate. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed throughout the year.

‘Yellow Teddy Bear’ is fully hardy and withstands cold winters without protection. Container plants may benefit from moving to a sheltered position during severe frost to protect the roots. Check container specimens regularly for watering needs, as pots can dry out even during winter months.

Watch for potential issues with spider mites during hot, dry weather, which can cause foliage discolouration. Maintaining adequate moisture and humidity helps prevent infestations. The dense foliage naturally resists most pests and diseases when grown in suitable conditions.

We also have ‘Green Teddy Bear’.

Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres