xCupressocyparis leylandii Leyland cypress
size/type
taller shrub,taller shrub
usual height
2-20m
usual width
2-4m
leaves
evergreen conifer
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
5b (down to -27°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Description of the plant:
Leyland cypress is a natural hybrid genus between cupressus macrocarpa and chamaecyparis nootkatensis. It is a fast growing conifer, used mainly in hedges and as a windbreak. It produces flattened sprays of scale-like, dark green leaves. The branches are not pendent, not erect. Something in between and it makes it different from chamaecyparis. It grows very fast when young, into a columnar tree with dense branching from the ground. Cupressocyparis is highly valued not only for its fast growth but also because it does not lose its colour in winter like some cypress or thuja and remains deep green, blue or yellow in case of varieties. Trim hedges 2-3 times from early spring until late summer. Never cut into old wood.
Leyland cypress is very soil tolerant and will grow in any well-drained soil. Just beware that it will consume most of nutrient and moisture in the area of about 2m from its trunk. If you plant larger specimens stake it well for the first 2-3 years to prevent from rooting out. It does not suffer from pests and diseases. Hardy to min. -27°C (USDA zone 5B).
Last update 02-01-2010; 31-01-2019
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