Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Ellie B.'

A charming miniature conifer prized for its dense, finely textured dark green foliage and exceptionally slow growth. Its tightly packed sprays create a refined, sculptural appearance that brings year-round elegance to rock gardens, troughs, fairy gardens, containers, and other small landscape spaces. As winter arrives, the foliage develops attractive bronze tones that beautifully contrast with its warm cinnamon-brown stems.

Similar to the popular 'Nana' Hinoki Cypress but with a more upright habit and even finer texture, 'Ellie B.' offers outstanding performance and enduring beauty in a compact package. Its naturally tidy form needs little maintenance, making it a favorite among collectors and gardeners seeking unique dwarf conifers.

Plant Details:

Garden Size: 1.5 feet H × 1 foot W
Growth Rate: Miniature, 1–3 inches per year
Habit: Broad Upright
Exposure: Sun to Partial Shade
USDA Zones: 5–8

Whether showcased in a rock garden, displayed in a decorative container, or added to a collection of specialty conifers, Ellie B. Hinoki Cypress offers timeless texture, subtle seasonal color, and exceptional charm in a truly miniature evergreen.

Why You'll Love It:

• True Miniature Conifer: Extremely slow-growing, making it perfect for small gardens and collectors.
• Year-Round Interest: Rich dark green foliage develops beautiful bronze highlights during winter.
• Naturally Sculptural: Dense, finely textured foliage creates a refined, elegant appearance with little pruning.
• Perfect for Containers: An excellent choice for troughs, rock gardens, alpine plantings, and decorative containers.
• Low Maintenance: Hardy, easy to grow, and providing lasting beauty with minimal care

Bonsai Care Tips: Advanced

Watering: Check soil moisture daily and water thoroughly when the top layer begins to dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely or stay waterlogged. Watering frequency varies by species, season, and climate.

Light: Light requirements vary by species. Most outdoor bonsai prefer several hours of direct sunlight, while tropical indoor varieties thrive in bright light. Protect sensitive varieties from intense afternoon sun.

Soil/Drainage: Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix that aerates well while retaining enough moisture to support healthy roots.

Temperature/Humidity: Temperature needs vary by species. Temperate bonsai generally require seasonal outdoor changes and winter dormancy, while tropical varieties need protection from cold and may benefit from higher humidity.

Feeding: Apply a balanced bonsai fertilizer regularly during the active growing season, following product instructions. Reduce or discontinue feeding during dormancy.

Pruning/Training: Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. Wiring can be used to guide branches, but should be monitored to prevent damage. Perform root pruning during appropriate repotting periods.

Repotting: Repot approximately every 2–5 years, depending on species, age, and root growth. Early spring is ideal for many temperate varieties, while tropical species may have different requirements.

General Tips: Monitor regularly for pests, diseases, and signs of stress. Research your bonsai species' specific needs, as watering, light, temperature, and seasonal care can vary significantly.

Seasonal Note: Many outdoor bonsai and perennial plants look different during the colder months. Shorter days and cooler temperatures naturally trigger dormancy, foliage color changes, or leaf drop. These seasonal changes are a normal part of the plant's growth cycle and help prepare it for healthy new growth in spring.

-Plants ship in a grower's pot, fully rooted.
-We ship every Monday and Tuesday (excluding holidays) to avoid weekend delays.
-Our photos show what you can expect, but each plant is unique and may look slightly different upon arrival.
-Minor damage during shipping is entirely normal and should be expected, especially in extreme summer or winter temperatures. Don’t worry—damaged foliage can be trimmed away and will not affect the plant's root system or overall health.
-Hold off on watering if the soil is still moist, and wait 2-4 weeks before repotting or fertilizing. This patience will help your plant adjust smoothly without going into shock.

Important:

• Report any order issues the day they arrive by emailing info@magicvalleygardens.com with a photo. After 24 hours, no refunds, returns, or exchanges—no exceptions.
• We guarantee plants arrive alive, but can’t promise long-term success given the nature of plants.
• Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis. Many plants recover with proper care, so refunds may not be needed.