fokienia

Fokienia (Fokienia hodginsii) is a slow-growing conifer that requires adequate water during its growth season (March-September). Water the plant with 1 inch of water per week during this period. In the fall and winter, allow the soil to dry between watering, watering only when the soil is dry 2-3 inches deep. When watering, use caution as Fokienia does not tolerate overly wet or waterlogged soils.

Fokienia hodginsii prefers quite a bit of sunlight throughout the day. It should receive partial or full sun for at least 6 hours a day, but for optimal health, 8-10 hours is recommended. It usually does best in the morning and afternoon, as opposed to direct, hot afternoon sunlight for long periods of time. If it is placed in too much sunlight, however, its leaves will start to curl and yellow.

Fokienia hodginsii, commonly known as Chinese cypress, should be pruned lightly and selectively in order to maintain its natural shape and encourage vigorous new growth. Prune in late spring or early summer just before new growth appears. Promptly remove any dead or diseased wood, cutting back to the healthy wood. Remove crossing or intertwined branches, as well as any overly-long branches. If needed, thin out the branches for better air circulation, but take care not to remove too many in 1 season. You may also prune for aesthetics, such as removing branches that detract from the natural look of the tree. It is best to avoid heavily pruning Chinese cypress as it can damage the shape and limit new growth.