Black Dragon Japanese Cedar Tree

Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon' is a dense, irregular evergreen Japanese cedar selected for a compact landscape form. Clemson Extension lists mature dimensions of 8–10 feet high and 4–6 feet wide; its foliage is light green in summer and darkens in winter, with abundant male cones hanging from the branches. See the [Clemson Extension cultivar description](https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/japanese-cryptomeria/) and the [Oregon State University species profile](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/cryptomeria-japonica) for cultivar and species context. ## Siting and foliage Grow in full sun or partial shade in rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soil. Allow room for the irregular mature outline and shelter from strong winds. Clemson Extension lists Japanese cryptomeria for USDA zones 5–9 and notes that excess drought can stress the species. The summer-to-winter foliage shift is dark green, rather than near-black. ## Maintenance Water during prolonged dry weather, especially while the plant is establishing. Keep the soil well drained, allow airflow around the branches and prune only to remove damaged growth or maintain a specific shape.