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Plant Guide

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Microbiota decussata

  • Common Name
    Siberian Carpet Cypress
  • CA Native
    Non-native
  • Plant Type
    Ground Cover
  • Size
    1' - 1.5' - 7' - 8'
  • Flower Color
    Insignificant
  • Bloom Time
    N / A
  • Leaves
    Bright Green New Growth Turns Dark Green by Summer
  • Evergreen
    Evergreen
  • Deer Resistant
    Rarely Damaged
  • Wildlife Value
    N / A
  • Growth Rate
    Moderate
  • Hardiness
    Hardy
  • Adverse Growth Factors
    None
  • Special Features
    • Low Maintenance
  • Water Use
    • Low
  • Soil pH
    6.5-7.5 (neutral)
  • Exposure
    • Full Sun
    • Partial Shade
    • Shade
  • Soil Type
    Not Particular
  • Drainage
    Good Drainage
  • Description and Cultural Plant Tips

    M. decussata is a finely textured, woody groundcover that performs well in dry, exposed areas. It has a neat sprawling habit with many trailing feathery branches. It looks like a minature, trailing arborvitae. It can be used instead of groundcover junipers which may be prone to tip blight. Will also tolerate more shade than junipers. Foliage turns bronze in the winter if planted in the sun. It serves as an excellent ground cover for slopes, banks or as a lawn substitute.

    Plant slightly above soil grade in any soil type as long as there is good drainage. Water well after planting. Mulch around plant to retain soil moisture.

    It has no serious pests or diseases.

  • Master Gardener Comments
    N / A
  • Varietals
    N / A