Cryptomeria japonica 'Dragon Prince™'
Overview
Uses: Foundation plantings, borders, Asian-inspired gardens, rock gardens, and evergreen accents in mixed shrub beds or containers.
Benefits: Dense, rounded habit with soft, bright green foliage that holds its color year-round; compact and low-maintenance; excellent texture and contrast for small spaces or formal designs.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 – 9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Evergreen conifer
Mature Height: ~3' – 4'
Mature Width: ~4' – 5'
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Summary
Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar offers the perfect blend of structure and softness—an evergreen that stays naturally compact, rounded, and lush without pruning.
This improved Cryptomeria japonica selection forms a neat, mounded shape covered in soft, bright green needles that shimmer with a golden undertone in full sun. In winter, the foliage takes on subtle bronze hues, adding warmth and contrast to cold-season landscapes.
Ideal for low hedges, specimen groupings, or containers, Dragon Prince™ provides year-round color and texture with almost no maintenance. Its tidy habit, refined texture, and adaptability make it a standout in both modern and traditional gardens, offering a polished evergreen accent that looks great in every season.
Care
Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar Care
Plant in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. While adaptable to various soil types, good drainage is essential to prevent root stress or dieback.
Provide full sun for the best color and density. In warmer southern climates, partial afternoon shade helps protect foliage from scorch during peak summer heat.
Water regularly during the first year to establish roots, then as needed during dry spells. Apply mulch to help conserve moisture and insulate roots during temperature extremes.
Feed in early spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer to encourage steady, healthy growth.
Dragon Prince™ maintains its shape naturally and rarely requires pruning. If shaping is desired, prune lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Size
Size of Dragon Prince™ for Sale Online
Our plants ship in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are appropriately sized for their containers. For current pot sizes and availability, please contact us.
Size of Dragon Prince™ When Mature
Expect a rounded, compact evergreen shrub approximately 3' – 4' tall and 4' – 5' wide at maturity under average garden conditions.
Additional Information
What is the botanical name of Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar?
Cryptomeria japonica 'Dragon Prince™'. Commonly known as Japanese cedar or sugi in Japan.
Is Dragon Prince™ deer resistant?
Yes—Japanese cedar is typically avoided by deer, making it a dependable choice for low-maintenance evergreen structure in deer-prone areas.
Does Dragon Prince™ change color in winter?
Yes. The bright green summer foliage takes on a rich bronze tint in colder weather, adding unique winter color and texture to the landscape.
How much sun does Dragon Prince™ need?
Full sun promotes the best density and color. It tolerates partial shade but may become more open in lower light.
Does Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar need pruning?
No. It naturally maintains a compact, rounded shape. Light trimming can be done in early spring to refine form if needed.
Is Dragon Prince™ suitable for containers or small gardens?
Yes. Its compact, globe-like habit and evergreen texture make it ideal for decorative containers, courtyards, or tight spaces in formal gardens.
What soil and moisture conditions are best?
Moist, well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Avoid prolonged drought or heavy clay that remains saturated after rainfall.
When is the best time to plant Japanese cedar?
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Early planting helps roots establish before the stress of summer heat or winter chill.
