Aleks Monk

During these dog days of summer I am especially appreciative of all my conifer friends, providing blessed shade, a sweet smell on the air and a cool background on which my squinting eyes may rest. One conifer in particular is especially welcome to my eye, Thujopsis dolabrata var. dolabrata, with its deep green, glossy scales and wide-sweeping branchlets. This gorgeous conifer is stately, trouble free, and slow growing to the point where it will happily spend 30 to 50 years in a Seattle-sized yard without terrifying your too-common panicky neighbor.

I recently discovered a blog post from Corinne Kennedy for the Seattle Japanese Garden regarding hiba (“cedar” in Japanese). I particularly enjoyed learning the meaning behind the name “asunaro”, and I think you will as well. Please read on!

Scientific Name: Thujopsis dolabrata var. dolabrata

Common Names: hiba, elkhorn cedar, battle axe cedar, lizard tree, asunaro

Family: Cupressaceae

Native Region: endemic to Japan

Growing Conditions: Prefers a sunny location with perhaps a bit of afternoon shade in hot climates. Well drained, moist, neutral to alkaline soil, with some protection from cold, drying winds.

Washington Park Arboretum Locations: Grid 31-2E, an elegant 37 year old specimen, located along the path between the Woodland Garden and Loderi Valley. Grid 1South-6E, a copse of six specimens best viewed from the Arboretum Loop Trail bridge at the intersection with Arboretum Drive. Grid 0-B, just in front of the Japanese Garden entrance.