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The Leyland cypress (Cupressus x leylandii), is a fast-growing coniferous evergreen tree, first created by crossbreeding the Monterey cypress and the Nootka cypress. The hybrid species features a dense, upright growth pattern, which is perfect for creating privacy hedges in landscaping. Leyland cypress trees are primarily propagated through cuttings, as the nature of creating hybrid plants causes most to be sterile. Other notable characteristics of the Leyland cypress include:
Takes well to pruning, and is often used as a hedge.
Can grow three to five feet per year, up to a height of 60 to 70 feet.
Although they tolerate partial shade, the trees do best in full sun, 6 to 8 hours a day of direct light.
Watering
When newly planted, water every few days. After it's established, water the tree whenever the ground is dry.
Fertilizing
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, preferably a product designed for evergreens.
Planting and Care
by Mary Van Keuren | Gardener (30+ Years Experience) – last update on December 22, 2021
Planting instructions
Plant your Leyland cypress trees in spring while they are dormant, after the ground has thawed. The species prefers to be planted in a location that receives full sun. The tree will grow well in all types of soil, but the best results will be achieved by planting in rich, loamy soil. To plant, dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the tree in the hole, keeping it upright and making sure the top of the root ball level with the ground. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp down lightly.
Watering and nutrients
For the first few weeks after planting, water every few days. Once your tree is established, water as soon as the top three inches of soil are dry, or approximately once per week. Deep, thorough waterings that permeate through the plant’s roots will result in faster growth. Leyland cypress trees are relatively light feeders, not requiring fertilizer applications unless planted in poor soil. If needed, apply a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and formulated for evergreens in early spring.
Pruning
In general, Leyland cypress trees do not require pruning in order to grow successfully. However, pruning can help in forming the trees into a hedge, while also aiding the overall health of the plant. If you choose to prune your tree, focus on removing dead, dying, and diseased branches as they appear. This will allow the tree to focus on new growth. When pruning your trees for aesthetic reasons, cut branches back to a lateral branch or the main trunk, so that the pruning cut is not visible. Avoid pruning back new foliage.
Pests and diseases
Leyland cypress trees are prone to Seiridium canker (or Cypress canker), a fungal disease caused by Seiridium unicorne. The cankers form on the branches and stems of the tree, reducing water flow and allowing diseases and insects to enter tree tissue. Your trees may have canker if there is dieback at the ends of the branches. Prune any diseased branches immediately and dispose of them away from other cypress trees. Heavily infected trees should be removed entirely. Bagworms are a common cypress pest that eats away at the foliage. If a bagworm infestation begins to affect your tree, apply a bacterial insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis. For severe infestations, consult a licensed tree professional.
FAQs
How large do Leyland cypress trees grow?
Mature Leyland cypress trees may reach heights over 50 feet, with a width of up to 25 feet. Once established, the trees can grow around three to five feet per year. Prime specimens have been able to reach their full size in less than 20 years — a rare feat for most tree species. Leyland cypress trees planted in optimal conditions may live up to 50 years. When planted in tight spacing or poor soil, the tree may be lucky to survive for 20 years.
How far apart should I plant Leyland cypress trees?
Leyland cypress trees are versatile, allowing them to be planted at different spacings depending on the desired effect. For maximum height, width, and longevity, plant your cypress trees at least 25 feet apart. This will give them room to grow and expand. For a quicker, smaller hedge formation, the trees can be planted about 10 feet apart. However, this tight spacing may have adverse effects on the growth rate and lifespan of the trees.
How can I make my Leyland cypress grow faster?
While Leyland cypress trees can tolerate poor soil and growing conditions, this will not always lead to optimal growth. To make your trees grow faster, plant them in rich, well-draining soil. Excessively moist soil will hinder growth and promote disease, so be careful not to overwater the trees. If your soil is lacking nutrients, as determined by a soil test, add an evergreen fertilizer as indicated above. Leyland cypress trees also require at least 25 feet of spacing to achieve their maximum rate of growth.
Why is my Leyland cypress tree turning brown?
If your Leyland cypress trees are turning brown, you may want to check for a few common pests and pathogens. Fungal diseases are the most common cause of a browning tree and are usually caused by lack of airflow or excessive moisture. Pruning away the dying foliage may help — sterilize your pruning shears before each cut and dispose of the infected branches away from your trees. Poor planting site conditions can also cause the tree to turn brown, including dry, hard soil or standing water.
Growing Zones: 6-10 i
Growing zones help determine if a particular plant is likely to grow well in a location. It identifies the average annual minimum winter temperatures across the U.S. provided as a map by the USDA.
(hardy down to -10°F)
Leyland Cypress Trees
Cupressus × leylandii
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