Cryptomeria japonica ‘Dragon Prince™’
Overview
Uses: Foundation plantings, borders, Asian-inspired gardens, rock gardens, evergreen accents in mixed shrub beds, and decorative containers.
Benefits: Dense, naturally rounded habit with soft, bright green foliage that holds color year-round. Compact size and refined texture make it ideal for small landscapes and formal designs.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Evergreen Shrub
Growth Habit: Rounded, Mounding — dense globe-like form with fine-textured foliage.
Foliage Color: Bright Green, maturing to Bronze in winter
Mature Height: 3–4 feet
Mature Width: 4–5 feet
Bloom Season: Insignificant
Growth Rate: Slow
Summary
Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar offers compact evergreen structure with a naturally refined, globe-like form that stays neat without constant pruning.
This improved selection of Cryptomeria japonica develops soft, bright green needles that create a lush, textural presence in the landscape. In colder weather, the foliage transitions to warm bronze tones, adding subtle seasonal interest while maintaining its dense structure.
Ideal for foundation plantings, small garden spaces, and containers, Dragon Prince™ delivers reliable year-round color and form. Its balanced proportions and consistent growth habit make it an excellent evergreen accent for both modern and traditional landscapes.
Care
Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar Care
Plant in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. While adaptable to a range of soil types, consistent drainage is essential for long-term health.
Provide full sun for the densest growth and best color. In warmer climates, partial afternoon shade may help reduce summer stress.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, water during extended dry periods. Apply mulch to help conserve soil moisture and moderate root temperatures.
Feed in early spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer to support steady growth.
This variety maintains its rounded shape naturally and rarely requires pruning. If shaping is desired, prune lightly in late winter before new growth begins.
Size
What Size is the Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar for Sale Online?
Plants ship in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are appropriately sized for their containers. For current pot sizes and availability, please contact us.
How Large Does Dragon Prince™ Japanese Cedar Grow?
At maturity, expect a compact evergreen shrub reaching approximately 3–4 feet tall and 4–5 feet wide under average garden conditions.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
It is commonly known as Japanese cedar or sugi.
Can Dragon Prince™ be used for privacy?
While compact in size, its dense evergreen structure makes it useful for low screening and layered foundation privacy. For taller screening options, explore our Privacy Trees & Shrubs collection.
Does Dragon Prince™ change color in winter?
Yes. The bright green foliage develops bronze tones in colder weather, adding seasonal depth while remaining evergreen.
Is Dragon Prince™ suitable for small gardens?
Its compact, rounded habit makes it well-suited for courtyards, foundation plantings, and tighter landscape spaces where larger evergreens would overwhelm the design.
How does Dragon Prince™ compare to larger Cryptomeria varieties?
Unlike standard Japanese cedar varieties that mature into large trees, Dragon Prince™ remains shrub-sized and globe-shaped, making it easier to incorporate into residential landscapes.
Is Dragon Prince™ considered an evergreen?
Yes. It retains foliage year-round, providing consistent color and structure. You can browse additional year-round structure options in our Evergreen Plants collection.
