Chinese Juniper 'Torulosa' (Juniperus chinensis): The Twisted Hollywood Star

Chinese Juniper 'Torulosa' (Juniperus chinensis 'Torulosa'), also known as Hollywood Juniper, Kaizuka, or Twisted Juniper, is a sculptural evergreen famous for its dramatically twisted, upright branches and irregular, open habit. No two specimens are alike—each is a living sculpture.

Artistic Form

The branches twist and turn in unpredictable directions, creating a windswept, bonsai-like appearance even on large plants. Foliage is dense, scale-like, and rich green, sometimes bronzing in winter. Mature plants produce small, bluish berries (cones). It grows 15–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, making a striking specimen.

Taxonomy & Synonyms

• Family: Cupressaceae
• Genus: Juniperus
• Species: chinensis
• Cultivar: Torulosa
• Also known as: Kaizuka, Hollywood Juniper, Twisted Juniper
• Synonyms: Juniperus chinensis var. kaizuka, J. chinensis var. torulosa

Culture & Uses

Extremely tough: tolerates heat, cold, drought, salt, and poor soils. Full sun. Deer resistant. Use as a focal point, in Asian gardens, or for erosion control on slopes. Low maintenance—no pruning needed unless shaping. A classic for coastal and urban landscapes.