Whenever you see the word nana or its variants as part of a plant name, you can be certain that you've encountered a dwarf type (think nanotechnology). 'Nana Gracilis' hinoki cypress is no exception – after thirty-one years, this individual in the Alpine Garden has only reached two meters (6ft.) or so in height, whereas a mature individual of the wild species can reach forty meters (110ft.).
Read more about the species hinoki cypress on the conifers.org web site: Chamaecyparis obtusa.
Evolution resource link: Darwin, an online exhibit from the American Museum of Natural History.
Is it true that the term, "dwarf", simply means slow growing as opposed to "nana" or "pigmy" which designate small growers?
Chamaecyparis obtusa - Z6 - RHS Index of Garden Plants, Griffiths
Chamaecyparis obtusa - Z4-8 - A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants, Brickell, Cole, Zuk
Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' - Z4 - Heronswood catalogue, Hinkley
Conifer Society has dwarf and slow-growing conifers organized into specific categories based on growth rate. Try their web site, in think the schedule is posted there. Stearn, BOTANICAL LATIN (David & Charles) says nanus means dwarf.
Will this conifer do well in a south-facing situation, but where it is surrounded with taller, deciduous trees? I would say an open shade position.
I visited Botanical Gardens for the first time today and fell in love with this sweet little thing. Is there a place I can buy a 'Nana Gracilis' in BC? And yes I know, it takes 30 years to get it there...
I have the Chamaecyparis Obt Gracilis. I have noticed when touching it a powdery dust appears.
Is there a fungus or disease? If so how do I treat it? The problem would be that it is right next to a Japanese Koi pond. Any ideas or suggestions?