The Leyland cypress, Cupressus × leylandii, often referred to simply as leylandii, is a fast-growing coniferous evergreen tree much used in horticulture, primarily for hedges and screens. Even on sites of relatively poor culture, plants have been known to grow to heights of 15 metres (49 ft) in 16 years. Their rapid, thick growth means they are sometimes used to achieve privacy, but such use can result in disputes with neighbours whose own property becomes overshadowed. The tree is a hybrid of Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and Nootka cypress (Cupressus nootkatensis). It is almost always sterile, and is propagated mainly by cuttings.
How to keep Cupressus X Leylandii.
Water
This cypress is quite hardy and can tolerate occasional wet conditions and drought. For its first 2 years, you will need to water it twice per week during the spring, weekly throughout the summer, and one to two times a month from fall to winter. Mature trees can go longer periods without water.
Temperature
The Leyland cypress is hardy in USDA growing zones 6 through 10. It can thrive in a wide range of climates above -8 degrees Fahrenheit. This tree may even survive growing in zone 5 so long as it is protected from the snow and ice.
Fertilizer
Feed your cypress with an all-purpose, balanced fertilizer early in the spring before new growth emerges.
Pruning
You may prune your Leyland cypress annually to control its size or train them to grow as a multi-stemmed shrub. Once the leader or primary stem has reached your desired height, prune a few inches under to inhibit any further upward growth but still leave room for minor brinaching.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Coniferous evergreen tree
- Genus
- Cupressus
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-10
Other names.
