Leyland Cypress — Growing reference
| Scientific name | x Cuprocyparis leylandii |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 730–1460 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 182.9–304.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 1219.2–1828.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 457.2–609.6 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 6–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Plant in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun, giving trees generous spacing for airflow, since crowding and poor drainage are the leading causes of the canker diseases that shorten this tree's life in humid climates. Leyland cypress is a fast-growing hybrid conifer long popular across the South for quickly establishing a dense, narrow, evergreen privacy screen, capable of adding 3 feet or more of growth per year in its early years to reach a mature height of 40–60 feet with soft, feathery, blue-green foliage. Its rapid growth rate made it the default screening tree for decades, but it is increasingly susceptible to fatal canker diseases in the Gulf South's heat, humidity, and heavy clay soils, particularly when planted too closely together or in poorly drained sites, so many extension services now recommend Green Giant arborvitae or other alternatives for new plantings in this region. Where Leyland cypress is already established or planted with excellent drainage and spacing, minimal pruning is needed beyond an occasional light shearing to maintain shape.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0