Tim's Top 5 Yellow Conifers

Cedrus deodara 'Well's Golden'

Cedrus deodara 'Wells’ Golden', otherwise known as 'Wells’ Select', is an attractive variety of Himalayan cedar known for its stunning golden-yellow foliage in the winter months. Given the right amount of sunlight, this specimen can reach a height of 12-14 feet within 10 years. If you're looking for a beautiful winter display, 'Wells’ Golden' is the ideal choice. It was originally discovered and introduced by Wells Nursery of Mt Vernon, Washington.

Thuja orientalis 'Amber Glow'

'Amber Glow' is a small arborvitae that offers a unique display of color. During the summer months, its foliage is bright yellow-green, while in fall it takes on a more vibrant yellow hue. This changes to a stunning amber shade in the winter, making it a great choice for adding some winter interest to your garden. This specimen can reach 3-4 feet in height and width within 10 years.

Cryptomeria japonica 'Golden Promise'

'Golden Promise' is a small, golden-hued Japanese cedar variety, making it ideal for adding some color to your garden or landscape. It is both drought- and sun-tolerant, so make sure to give it plenty of direct sunlight for the best results. Discovered by Don W. Hatch Nursery in the UK in 1998, this hardy dwarf conifer can reach 4 feet in height and width within 15 years.

Picea orientalis 'Skylands'

'Skylands' is a beautiful golden spruce variety with an attractive, upright shape. This specimen can reach 12-15 ft in 10 years, but it is recommended to give it some shelter from the hot afternoon sun while it is still establishing. Once established, it can handle quite a bit of sun. 'Skylands' was originally discovered as a chance seedling at the Skylands Estate in Ringwood, NJ and is now the New Jersey Botanical Gardens. During a post-tour at the Maple Society Meeting in 2018, we were lucky enough to visit the original 'Skylands', which stands at around 30-35 ft in height after 60-70 years.

Pinus sylvestris 'Gold Coin'

'Gold Coin' is widely considered one of the best glowing yellow pines for the winter months, as its dark green needles turn to a beautiful golden yellow in the cooler months. It can withstand warmer climates, such as USDA Zone 8, and its summer to fall color change is remarkable. In the winter, the yellow needles create a stunning contrast with nearly everything in the landscape. 'Gold Coin' has a conical shape and can reach a height of 10-12 ft in 10 years. Pruning and candling can help to keep this special pine confined to smaller spaces.