Cupressus sempervirens
Italian cypress
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertiles, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Hardiness: fully hardy
Dense, flattened branches of grey-green to dark green scale-like leaves and spherical or prickly brown female cones characterise this medium-sized, evergreen tree. This Italian cypress performs best in a sunny, sheltered site with well-drained soil. A narrowly upright, columnar form, this conifer can be used to create vertical interest in a garden with great effect.
Incorporate some well-conditioned organic matter when planting this conifer. Water well during the first year and in dry periods. Some trees can form double double-leading stems - if so one will need to be removed (seek technical guidance before such formative pruning).