Port Orford Cedar
chamaecyparis lawsoniana
Also known as: ["Lawson Cypress","Port Orford Cypress"]
Overview
An evergreen conifer native to southwestern Oregon and northern California, valued for its ornamental foliage and timber.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaecyparis |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaecyparis lawsoniana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot, or container in a protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide dappled shade in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F); tolerates cold but needs protection from extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; water adequately in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower foliage.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late summer to early autumn when new growth has matured slightly.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to maintain form; remove dead or diseased branches; encourage denser growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove crossing branches; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim root bound plants; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in heat; browning or needle drop in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, needle discoloration, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and wilting, even if soil moisture is adequate.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop feeding in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Chamaecyparis lawsoniana. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Chamaecyparis lawsoniana by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChamaecyparis lawsoniana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities or with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chamaecyparis lawsoniana toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Port Orford Cedar?
A: It is used for ornamental landscaping, timber production, and sometimes for erosion control.
Q: How should I care for Chamaecyparis lawsoniana?
A: Provide full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; protect from strong winds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cupressaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
