Cryptomeria japonica 'Tansu'
Synonym: Cryptomeria japonica 'Yatsubusa'
Common name: Dwarf Japanese cedar
Cryptomeria japonica 'Tansu' is a compact conifer with an irregular, pyramidal shape. Its needles are a light to medium green and longer in the middle of the stem. Normally after ten years of growth, the plant will measure 70 centimetres (28 inches) tall with an annual growth rate of 5 to 7.5 centimetres (2 to 3 inches).
This cultivar was introduced in 1982 from Iseli Nursery in Boring, Oregon, U.S.A. C. japonica 'Tansu' is suited for a rock garden, or where space is limited. It is often used for bonsai.
There are several examples of Cryptomeria japonica 'Tansu' at VanDusen. One can be found in Bed 96A near the yellow birdhouse in the Backyard Bird Garden. Another is in the Stanley Smith Garden. These photos were taken as VanDusen was preparing for Festival of Lights 2022.
Garden Story about hay fever allergy
Text and photos by Kumi Sutcliffe