Golden threadlike sprays make Chamaecyparis pisifera Sungold a broad evergreen mound for foundations, rock gardens, and mixed borders. New growth emerges bright gold, then matures to lime green on thin, weeping branches. The foliage keeps its color through the year.
Grow it in full sun or partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Shelter the mound from strong wind and avoid wet ground. Its slow growth and naturally rounded form need little pruning, though light trimming can control size.
Watch for aphids, juniper scale, shoot-boring moths, and bagworms. Root rot, juniper blight, honey fungus, and Phytophthora root diseases may occur. The whole plant is listed as toxic, and its pollen may trigger an inhalation allergy.
