Southern White Cedar ‘Rubicon’ (P9)

Southern White Cedar ‘Rubicon’ – Chamaecyparis thyoides is a stunning evergreen conifer that brings year-round colour to your garden. This compact cultivar works beautifully in smaller spaces or as an eye-catching accent in larger gardens.

‘Rubicon’ stands out with its striking foliage colour. The scale-like leaves start as a deep purple-red in spring, maturing to a rich plum colour in summer. As autumn approaches, the foliage takes on bronze tones, providing a constantly changing display throughout the seasons. This vibrant colouration contrasts beautifully with other garden plants, especially against a backdrop of green foliage.

The tree grows in a neat, pyramidal shape, maintaining its form without much pruning. Its compact size makes it ideal for rock gardens, container planting, or as a colourful hedge. The dense growth habit also provides excellent shelter for small birds, adding wildlife value to your garden.

Chamaecyparis thyoides is native to the eastern United States, where it’s often found in swampy areas. The ‘Rubicon’ cultivar, however, is much more adaptable to garden conditions. It’s a relatively slow-growing tree, which means it won’t outgrow its space quickly, making it a great long-term addition to your garden design.

Chamaecyparis thyoides ‘Rubicon’ adapts well to various conditions in gardens and prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate occasional wet feet, though waterlogged conditions are best avoided. When planting, incorporate some organic matter into the soil to improve drainage and fertility. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it’s fairly drought-tolerant but appreciates occasional deep watering during dry spells. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. This cedar doesn’t require regular pruning, but you can lightly trim it in late spring to maintain shape if desired. Keep an eye out for pests like bagworms or spider mites, treating promptly if spotted. With its easy-going nature and stunning colour, ‘Rubicon’ is a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, attractive evergreen with year-round interest.

Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres

🇬🇧 UK grown in Lancashire. Approx 20-30cm in a 9cm pot.