How to Grow Leyland Cypress - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Leyland cypress is an evergreen plant that can grow to a height of 150 feet. It has a conical shape and its leaves are dark green in color. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely used as a hedge or screen in many parts of the world.

How to Grow Leyland Cypress - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Arborgold Hetren
  • Bergman's Weeping Cypress
  • Blue Ice Cypress

Things to Know

  • The leyland cypress is a fast-growing evergreen tree.
  • It is typically grown as a hedge or privacy screen.
  • Leyland cypress is tolerant of a wide range of soils and site conditions.
  • It has little to no shade tolerance and prefers full sun.
  • Leyland cypress is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases.
  • It is also susceptible to storm damage.
  • Leyland cypress is an introduced species in North America.
  • It is considered an invasive species in some parts of the United States.
  • Leyland cypress is sometimes used in landscaping as an alternative to the endangered Atlantic white cedar.
  • Leyland cypress is a source of lumber and wood chips.

Related plant:
Leyland Cypress Trees

Planting Process

  1. For leyland cypress, first step is to choose a planting site. It should be in full sun and have well-drained soil.
  2. Next, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Once the hole is dug, place the tree in it and begin to backfill with soil.
  4. Firm the soil around the base of the tree as you go.
  5. Water the tree deeply after planting.
  6. Leyland cypress will need to be watered regularly during the first growing season.
  7. Fertilize the tree in spring with a high-quality fertilizer.
  8. Prune Leyland cypress to shape as needed.
  9. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful leyland cypress!

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, leyland cypress grows well in a wide range of soils as long as the soil is well-drained. It is tolerant of both dry and wet soils, but it does not tolerate discrimination soils. The tree also does not do well in heavy, dense clay soils. Leyland cypress prefers soils that are rich in organic matter.

About light

So, like the other evergreens, Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) need sun to grow well and stay healthy. This fast-growing tree is often used as a hedge or privacy screen, so it's important to plant it in an area that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In shady areas, the tree may grow more slowly and be more susceptible to diseases.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions that are most favorable for Leyland cypress growth are those that are within the range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant is not tolerant of high temperatures, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can cause leaf scorching and needle drop. In addition, this species is not tolerant of frost, and temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit can damage or kill the plant.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 and 60 percent. The roots of the plant are very sensitive to over-watering, so be sure to allow the topsoil to dry out between watering. If the leaves of the plant begin to turn brown, this is a sign that it is not getting enough water.

The Fertilizer

About fertilizer, usually the plant doesn't need too much. An annual feeding in spring is usually sufficient. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow and close to the surface. Because of this, the plant is not particularly drought tolerant.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of caring for a leyland cypress. The tree will need to be pruned regularly to keep it looking its best. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or dying branches. You should also trim back any branches that are growing too close to the trunk of the tree.

About Propagating

Propagation of Leyland cypress is usually by cuttings taken from young, healthy plants in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches (15 cm) long and should be taken from the tips of the branches. They should be placed in a planting mix that is well-drained and kept moist until they have rooted. Leyland cypress can also be propagated by seed, but it is often difficult to get the seeds to germinate.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate during their first 10 years of life. After that, growth slows considerably. In the wild, these trees may live to be 150 years old, but in cultivation, they are more likely to live 50 to 70 years. Given the rapid growth of these trees during their first decade, it is important to provide them with plenty of space so they do not crowd out other plants in the landscape.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are fungal diseases, such as canker and root rot. These diseases can kill the tree if left untreated. Other problems include pests, such as caterpillars and scale insects, which can damage the tree's foliage.

List to Know

  • If you are growing leyland cypress from seed, start them indoors in late winter or early spring.
  • Plant leyland cypress seedlings in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
  • Space leyland cypress seedlings at least 8 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for the trees to mature.
  • Keep young leyland cypress trees watered, but do not over-water them. too much water can lead to root rot.
  • Fertilize young leyland cypress trees twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune leyland cypress trees regularly to maintain their shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
  • Leyland cypress trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases. Watch for scale insects, aphids, and spider mites. Also, be on the lookout for canker diseases which can cause

Similar Plants

  • golden cypress
  • japanese cypress
  • cypress
  • cedar
  • juniper
  • spruce
  • fir
  • pine
  • hemlock

Source:
x Hesperotropsis leylandii (Leyland Cypress) | North Carolina …
The Leyland Cypress | North Carolina Cooperative Extension
Leyland Cypress Lamentations | North Carolina Cooperative …

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Trees Category