Cupressus sempervirens (Italian Cypress) – A Tall, Elegant Evergreen with Classic Columnar Shape
Cupressus sempervirens, commonly known as the Italian Cypress, is a tall, elegant evergreen conifer that is renowned for its narrow, columnar shape and striking, deep green foliage. Native to the Mediterranean region, this iconic tree grows upright, reaching heights of 12–15 meters (40–50 feet) with a very narrow spread, making it perfect for creating vertical accents, privacy screens, or as a feature in architectural or formal garden designs. Its tall, slender form and rich, dark green foliage provide year-round structure and elegance, particularly in landscapes with Mediterranean, Italian, or Tuscan-inspired themes.
Why Grow Cupressus sempervirens (Italian Cypress)?
Tall & Elegant Form – Cupressus sempervirens is known for its narrow, columnar growth habit, which allows it to provide height and structure without taking up much space, making it ideal for narrow gardens, entrances, or as a statement tree in larger landscapes.
Deep Green Foliage – The dense, dark green foliage creates a striking contrast in the landscape, particularly in winter when it retains its colour and adds visual interest to the garden.
Classic Mediterranean Appeal – Known for its association with Mediterranean gardens, the Italian Cypress adds an unmistakable touch of elegance and timeless beauty to any garden, offering an exotic yet classic feel.
Low-Maintenance & Hardy – Cupressus sempervirens is a hardy, drought-tolerant tree that requires minimal care once established. Its hardy nature and tolerance of poor soils make it an easy-to-grow plant for a variety of climates.
Privacy & Screening – With its dense foliage and vertical growth, the Italian Cypress is an excellent choice for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, or to line pathways and driveways, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Planting & Care Guide
Position – Prefers full sun for the best growth and most vibrant foliage. Cupressus sempervirens thrives in sunny locations, making it ideal for formal hedges, borders, or as a specimen plant. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as vigorously.
Soil – Prefers well-drained soil and is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including dry, sandy, and slightly alkaline conditions. It does best in moderately fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Watering – Water regularly during dry periods, particularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, the Italian Cypress is drought-tolerant and requires little watering, making it ideal for water-wise gardens.
Maintenance:
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Pruning – Prune to maintain its columnar shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning in early spring can help maintain its structure and encourage healthy growth.
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Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and suppress weeds.
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Fertilizing – Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth, particularly if planted in nutrient-poor soil.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Cupressus sempervirens pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean or drought-tolerant plants such as Lavender, Rosemary, Santolina, or Salvia, creating a relaxed yet refined garden. Its tall, vertical growth contrasts well with low-growing shrubs, flowering plants, or ornamental grasses like Pennisetum or Carex. For a more dramatic effect, plant in groups or in rows along pathways or driveways, where its upright form can create a stunning architectural feature. It can also be combined with flowering plants such as Cistus, Poppy, or Gaura for an eye-catching contrast of colours and textures. The Italian Cypress is an ideal choice for formal gardens, Mediterranean-themed landscapes, or as a sculptural focal point in modern designs.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
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