× Cuprocyparis leylandii
Leyland cypress
A large, fast-growing, dense conifer of columnar habit which can reach heights in excess of 30m if unchecked. Its dense foliage forms flattened, slightly drooping sprays of scale-like leaves
Synonyms
Chamaecyparis × leylandii× Hesperotropsis leylandii
see moreCallitropsis × leylandii
× Cupressocyparis leylandii
Cupressus × leylandii
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Cuprocyparis are large, very fast-growing evergreen trees of narrowly conical or columnar habit, with tiny scale-like leaves in dense sprays, and small spherical cones
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Suitable for hedging but requires regular trimming to keep under control. Fast growing and it has the potential to become a nuisance
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Regular trimming of young, green shoots will keep hedges neat and growth in check; trim two to three times in growing season. If old wood is pruned, regrowth will not occur
Pests
May be susceptible to conifer aphid and scale insects
Diseases
May be susceptible to a bacterial canker and honey fungus; see Conifers: brown patches
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