Family

Cupressaceae

Description

Leyland cypress is a fast-growing, evergreen conifer widely used for hedging and screening due to its dense, upright habit and tolerance of heavy shearing. Its flattened sprays of scale-like foliage form a tight vertical mass, providing year-round visual privacy and windbreak potential. Although visually unremarkable in flower, its speed of growth—often exceeding three feet per year—makes it a popular, if occasionally overused, solution in both residential and commercial landscapes.

 

This intergeneric hybrid originated in the 19th century from a cross between Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey cypress) and Chamaecyparis nootkatensis (Nootka cypress), both of which are native to the Pacific coastal regions of North America. As a sterile hybrid, × Cuprocyparis leylandii produces no viable seed and is propagated vegetatively. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and is adaptable to a range of conditions; however, it can be vulnerable to disease and wind damage if not carefully sited or maintained.