Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Yvonne’

Description

Quick Facts
– Botanical Name: Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Yvonne’
– Common Name: Lawson Cypress ‘Yvonne’
– Plant Type: Evergreen conifer
– Mature Height: Approx. 8-10m in time (slow to moderate growth, far less in the first 10 years)
– Mature Spread: Approx. 2-3m
– Foliage Colour: Bright golden-yellow, held in soft, feathery, flattened sprays; holds its colour well through winter
– Habit: Narrow, upright cone, well furnished down to the base
– Hardiness: Fully hardy
– Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, reasonably fertile; tolerates most soils but dislikes waterlogging and very dry ground
– Aspect: Full sun for the best golden colour; tolerates light shade
– Maintenance: Low: occasional light trim of new growth only

Description
Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Yvonne’ is a bright, elegant conifer for anyone who wants a little sunshine in the garden all year round. The soft, feathery sprays of golden-yellow foliage form a neat, narrow cone that stays full and well clothed right down to the ground, and the colour holds beautifully through winter, when so much of the garden has gone quiet.

It is a lovely way to bring height and warmth to a border without taking up much space. Against dark green evergreens, purple foliage or a painted fence, the golden tones really glow, and in low winter light the whole tree seems lit from within.

Bright, upright and beautifully tidy, ‘Yvonne’ is a conifer with real glow.

Caragh Garden Notebook

Planting:
Plant in autumn or spring in moist, well-drained soil, adding well-rotted compost to the planting hole. Choose a sunny, open position, as the golden foliage colour is at its best in good light and can turn greener in deep shade. Plant at the same depth as the pot, firm in gently and water in thoroughly. Stake taller specimens for the first year or two in exposed gardens.

Watering:
Water regularly through the first two growing seasons, especially in dry spells. Lawson cypress dislikes drying out completely, and prolonged drought can cause browning of the foliage, so a deep water in hot, dry weather is worthwhile. In containers, check the compost often and never allow it to dry out.

Feeding:
Apply a balanced general fertiliser or a slow-release conifer feed in spring. A mulch of well-rotted compost or bark around the base helps keep the roots cool and moist.

Seasonal Care & Tidy-Up:
Very little is needed. If you want to tidy or restrict the shape, trim lightly in spring or early summer, cutting only into the soft, green, current-season growth. Never cut back into old, brown wood, as it will not regrow and will leave permanent bare patches.

Pests & Problems:
Generally healthy in the right position. Poorly drained or waterlogged soil is the main risk and can lead to root rot, which shows as browning foliage and general decline. Cypress aphids can occasionally appear in summer and are best treated early. Wear gloves when trimming, as the foliage can irritate sensitive skin.

Design Notes:
‘Yvonne’ is a versatile golden accent for both formal and informal planting. Use a pair either side of a doorway or gate for a smart, structured entrance, or place one as a vertical focal point in a mixed border, where it contrasts beautifully with deep green, burgundy and blue-toned plants. It also performs well in a large container on a sunny patio. In winter, plant it with heathers, ornamental grasses and dark-leaved perennials to keep the garden looking warm and lively when little else is in colour.

Propagation:
Named conifers are usually propagated from cuttings by specialist nurseries. For reliable colour and form, always source nursery-grown plants.