A compact, dense conifer with soft feathery gold foliage and a neat conical form, often sold as a living Christmas tree. Lemon-scented when brushed and excellent in pots or as a small gold feature.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Gold Crest Conifer
Botanically, Cupressus macrocarpa 'Gold Crest' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Cupressaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and golden foliage.
Where to grow Gold Crest Conifer
Gold Crest Conifer suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Gold Crest Conifer does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Gold Crest Conifer does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Gold Crest Conifer in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Gold Crest Conifer in the garden
Gold Crest Conifer earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and clipping into topiary. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Gold Crest Conifer with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and Mediterranean climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Gold Crest Conifer
Plant Sale lists Gold Crest Conifer as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
