Conifer
Italian cypress
Cupressus sempervirens
A long-lived evergreen conifer associated with Mediterranean gardens. Common upright forms make strong vertical accents, but cold exposure and poorly drained soil can limit success.
- Size
- 12–20 m high · 2.5–4 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Winter
- Needs protection
- Seasonal form
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Low
Before planting
- Choose a sheltered site; severe winters are a risk, especially for young or container-grown plants.
Why choose it
- Evergreen foliage provides structure throughout the year.
Care
- Water while establishing; established plants tolerate dry periods.
- Preserve the natural outline rather than relying on repeated heavy pruning.
Good to know
- Not every form is pencil-shaped. The quoted spread represents commonly grown upright forms, not every natural crown shape.