Nootka Cypress ‘Moonshot’ 40/60cm (2L)

Nootka Cypress ‘Moonshot’ – Chamaecyparis nootkatensis is a striking evergreen conifer that brings genuine drama to any garden, with dense sprays of blue-green foliage tipped in creamy white and soft gold. As new growth emerges through spring and summer, the contrast between the pale shoot tips and the darker, blue-tinged foliage beneath gives the whole tree a shimmering, almost frosted appearance — hence the name. It’s a real showstopper as a specimen tree, and one that keeps earning its place in the garden all year round thanks to its evergreen habit.

Like all Nootka cypresses, ‘Moonshot’ has a naturally elegant, slightly weeping form, with branches that hang gracefully from a central leader, giving movement and softness that many upright conifers lack. The scale-like leaves are aromatic when crushed, releasing a resinous, slightly peppery scent that’s typical of the species. Left to its own devices it will develop into a broad, conical tree, though regular light trimming in late spring will keep growth denser and more compact if you’re working with a smaller garden or want to maintain it as a striking focal specimen.

Native to the cooler, damper coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest, Chamaecyparis nootkatensis is naturally very well suited to the British climate. It thrives in our reliably moist conditions and copes admirably with cool summers, wet winters, and everything in between.

Care guide

Plant ‘Moonshot’ in full sun to light shade — full sun will bring out the best of that creamy variegation, while some afternoon shade suits gardens in hotter, more exposed spots. It isn’t fussy about soil type and will grow happily in chalk, clay, loam or sandy soils, provided drainage is reasonably good; like most conifers, it dislikes sitting in waterlogged ground over winter. Aim for moist but well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil for the best results, though it will tolerate chalky conditions too.

Water regularly during the first couple of growing seasons to help establish a strong root system, particularly during dry spells in spring and summer. Once established, it’s reasonably drought-tolerant, though a deep soak in prolonged dry weather will keep foliage looking its best. A mulch of well-rotted organic matter applied in spring helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds around the base.

Little to no pruning is required for a naturally healthy shape, but if you want to maintain a tidier or more compact form, trim lightly in late spring after the new flush of growth has hardened slightly. Avoid cutting back into old wood, as conifers are slow to regenerate from bare branches. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring if growth seems sluggish, though established trees in reasonable soil rarely need much fertilising at all.

‘Moonshot’ is fully hardy across gardens and copes well with exposed or sheltered positions alike, making it a dependable choice for coastal gardens, open sites, or more sheltered courtyards.

Ultimate height
8–12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

This is a young tree and will benefit from winter protection in a greenhouse or similar away from the worst of the wind and frost. Hardy once a few years old.