Leyland Cypress

(Cupressus leylandii)

Leyland Cypress (Cupressus leylandii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cupressus × leylandii, commonly known as Leyland cypress, is a fast-growing evergreen tree, a hybrid between Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and Nootka cypress (Cupressus nootkatensis). It is native to neither parent’s natural habitat but thrives in a variety of temperate climates. Typically, Leyland cypress can achieve heights of up to 49 feet (15 meters) within 16 years, with some specimens reaching even greater heights under optimal conditions. Its dense, feathery foliage is dark green and remains so throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for privacy screens and hedges.

Leyland cypress is valued for its rapid growth and dense foliage, which make it ideal for creating quick privacy barriers and windbreaks. It is also used in urban settings for noise reduction. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it prefers well-drained soils and full sun to part shade conditions. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. It is important to space plants properly to avoid overcrowding and to reduce the risk of disease spread. Leyland cypress is almost always sterile and is propagated mainly by cuttings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 60-70 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Hedges, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Thrives in a variety of temperate climates, with dense, feathery, dark green foliage, and is valued for rapid growth and dense foliage ideal for privacy barriers and windbreaks

Other Names

Common Names: Leylandii

Scientific Names: Cupressus leylandii

GBIF Accepted Name: