Nootka Cypress ‘Strict Weeper’ 60/80cm (10L)

The Nootka Cypress ‘Strict Weeper’ – Cupressus nootkatensis is a remarkable architectural conifer that brings dramatic vertical interest to gardens throughout the year. This distinctive cultivar features an upright central leader with gracefully cascading side branches that sweep downwards, creating a narrow columnar silhouette with weeping foliage. The dark green, scale-like leaves are arranged in elegant sprays that drape beautifully, whilst the overall form remains tightly upright, making this an exceptional specimen for creating focal points in formal and contemporary garden designs.

This evergreen conifer displays exceptional year-round presence with its rich, dark green foliage that maintains its colour even through the coldest winter months. The weeping branches create a striking textural effect as they hang vertically from the main stem, producing a distinctive appearance that sets this cultivar apart from standard upright conifers. The foliage has a slightly aromatic quality when brushed, adding another sensory dimension to this attractive plant. As the tree matures, the bark develops an attractive grey-brown colour with shallow fissures, adding further visual interest.

The narrow, columnar habit of ‘Strict Weeper’ makes it particularly valuable for smaller gardens where space is at a premium, or for creating vertical accents without consuming large amounts of ground space. It works beautifully as a specimen plant in lawns, positioned either singly or in pairs to frame entrances or gateways. This cultivar also excels in mixed borders where its dark foliage provides an excellent backdrop for lighter-coloured flowering plants, and it can be used effectively in formal avenue plantings or to create height in island beds.

The architectural form of this Nootka Cypress makes it suitable for contemporary garden designs, Japanese-inspired gardens, and formal settings where its distinctive weeping habit can be fully appreciated. It associates particularly well with ornamental grasses, heathers, and other conifers with contrasting forms and colours. The tree is fully hardy and tolerates exposed positions well, making it suitable for coastal and upland gardens where its resilience to wind proves valuable.

Care Guide

Position this conifer in full sun to partial shade, though it will develop the best form and densest foliage in sunny locations. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and tolerates a range of soil types including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided drainage is adequate. The tree prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions but will adapt to mildly alkaline soils.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep root system, particularly during dry spells. Once established, the tree becomes reasonably drought-tolerant, though it performs best with consistent moisture. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base each spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch away from the trunk.

Feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser formulated for evergreens or conifers. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds in late summer as this can encourage soft growth that may be damaged by winter frosts.

Pruning is rarely necessary due to the naturally neat habit, but you can remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Avoid cutting into old wood as this cultivar does not regenerate readily from bare stems. The tree is generally pest and disease resistant, though good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres