Trees

Cryptomeria japonica 'Rasen-sugi'

Rasen-sugi Japanese cedar

Rasen-sugi Japanese cedar ('Rasen'), twisted foliage and cone detail at Wrocław University Botanical Garden. Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; square crop via ServeScape

Rasen-sugi is an unusual Japanese cedar distinguished by twisted stems and tightly spiraling foliage. The evergreen needles wrap around the shoots, giving the branches a rope-like texture that rewards close inspection. Its vigorous growth and fibrous reddish bark make it a characterful specimen where there is room for a substantial conifer.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 4–8 m · Width: 2.5–4 m
Water: Moist but well-drained soil
Hardiness: RHS H6 (−20 to −15°C; UK rating)

Sizes & prices

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Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Columnar upright
Use: Architectural specimen
Growth rate: Fast; approximately 20–28 inches/year

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Species is listed as resistant to deer damage, not deer-proof.
Drought: Established species trees tolerate dry periods, but water during prolonged drought; dwarf and container plants need closer moisture monitoring.
Wet soil: Prefers moist soil with good drainage.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; spiraling needles
Cones: Small woody cones; species cones and fallen foliage are not usually a significant litter problem.

Growing & care

Site: Sheltered position.
Pruning: Usually little shaping is needed. If necessary, shorten stray young shoots to a leafy side branch in early spring, retaining the cultivar's natural outline.
Siting: Sheltered position; avoid waterlogging and salt-laden winds.
Soil: Rich, slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soil.
Issues: Allow air circulation; leaf spot and blight can occur. Monitor mites in dry weather.

Sources & photo credits

Royal Horticultural Society

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

www.udel.edu

University of Florida IFAS

University of Missouri Extension

American Conifer Society

Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; square crop via ServeScape, resized for web without enlargement. · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Rasen-sugi Japanese cedar ('Rasen'), twisted foliage and cone detail at Wrocław University Botanical Garden. Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0; square crop via ServeScape, resized for web without enlargement.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.