Microbiota decussata (Russian Cypress)

A little known but hardy wide-spreading groundcover evergreen closely resembles a spreading juniper in shape but with the foliage of arborvitae; unlike juniper, performs very well in shade, also needs well-drained but moist soils and wind protection.

Russian Cypress is a multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Russian Cypress is a dwarf conifer which is primarily valued in the garden for its broadly spreading habit of growth. It has rich green evergreen foliage. The scale-like sprays of foliage turn coppery-bronze in the fall, which persists throughout the winter.

Russian Cypress will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.