WSU Clark County Extension
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Russian Cypress

Scientific name: Microbiota decussate
Taxonomy
Family:Cupressaceae
Type:Groundcovers evergreen
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:2 to 8
Sun:Partial shade
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:2 ft
Width:12 ft
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description As an alternative to all the different types of junipers, Russian Cypress is an interesting groundcover whose foliage turns bronze to burgundy in winter when grown in the sun. Also know as Russian arborvitae.

  Morphology:
A low, spreading evergreen coniferous groundcover that grows to a mature height of 2’ and a width of up to 12’. It bears needles which have the scale-like flattened pattern of Arborvitae (hence one of the common names).

  Adaptation:
Sun to partial shade; tolerates dry soil as well as a range of soil types, but needs good drainage . The brown "evergreen" foliage color in the winter months may appear dead to some individuals.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
Computing and Web Resources, PO Box 6234, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6234