A cultivar of Japanese cedar named for its dark green mature needles, Black Dragon cryptomeria (Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon') adds value to the landscape with its thick, pyramidal growth habit and height of 6 to 10 feet with a spread of 4 to 6 feet. Its striking color contrasts well with other landscape foliage and appears almost black in lower levels of light. New growth appears light green and stands out brilliantly against the older needles until it also darkens. Although hidden by needles, the trunk has interesting orange to brown peeling bark. Black Dragon cryptomeria thrives in full sunlight but also tolerates partial shade. It will grow with moderate moisture if well drained and is hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9.