8 Hinoki false cypress

CHAMAECYPARIS OBTUSA, ZONES 4 TO 8 This little gem isn’t so little in its native Japan, where it reaches 70 feet tall. Most nursery-grown cultivars are shorter than 10 feet, making them a perfect fit for small backyard gardens.

Why we love it: The tightly packed, swirly, golden-green foliage makes hinoki false cypress an absolute rock star, especially in winter.

Dwarf options are ideal for home gardeners. Try Gracilis, Graciosa, Confucius or Torulosa Dwarf.