Leyland Cypress
Cuprocyparis leylandii · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood
Plant Family
Cupressaceae
Tree Category
Evergreen, Ornamental, Screening Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Leighton Green'
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6-10; adaptable to a variety of climates but sensitive to extreme cold and heavy snow loads
About This Tree
A fast-growing intergeneric hybrid with a dense, broadly pyramidal to columnar form. It features flattened sprays of scale-like foliage and maintains its shape well with age.
Leaf Characteristics
Scale-like leaves in flat, drooping sprays; dark green to bluish-green color; small, soft to the touch; arranged in 4-ranked overlapping patterns
Bark Characteristics
Thin, reddish-brown bark that becomes greyish and develops shallow furrows and fibrous ridges as the tree matures
Growing Information
Origin Region
United Kingdom (Hybrid of North American species); widely adapted across Europe and North America
Growing Season
Year-round evergreen growth; active growth primarily in spring and summer; produces small cones in late winter/early spring
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun preferred; needs regular watering when young but moderately drought-tolerant once established; prefers well-drained soil
Mature Size
Height of 60-70 feet, spread of 15-25 feet; fast growth rate (up to 3-4 feet per year); lifespan often relatively short (20-50 years) in landscape settings
Special Characteristics
Exceptional speed of growth; excellent windbreak and privacy screening; high tolerance for salt air; susceptible to Seiridium canker and Bagworms
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides excellent year-round thermal cover and nesting sites for birds; small seeds in cones provide occasional food for songbirds and small mammals