Cupressus sempervirens Totem 18 Litre Pot 150/175cm

Cupressus sempervirens ‘Totem’

Tall, slender, and statuesque, Cupressus sempervirens ‘Totem’ brings an unmistakable touch of the Mediterranean to gardens far beyond its native climate. Known as the Italian Cypress, this columnar conifer is famed for its elegant, upright habit – rising like a green spire and adding instant drama, structure, and height to any planting scheme.

‘Totem’ is a particularly compact and tight-growing selection, bred to hold its narrow, architectural form without splaying or losing its shape. The evergreen foliage is dense and rich green, forming a vertical pillar that remains neat all year round. Its natural form requires very little clipping, making it an excellent choice for those who want strong structure in the garden with minimal effort.

In the garden, few plants are as versatile for creating atmosphere. A single specimen can serve as a bold focal point, while a pair flanking an entrance makes an elegant, Mediterranean-style statement. Planted in a row or avenue, their tall, narrow forms provide rhythm and grandeur, while in smaller gardens they add height without taking up much ground space. Their clean lines are equally at home in traditional, formal settings or in more contemporary designs where minimalism is key.

Growing conditions:

• Position: Full sun – thrives best with plenty of light

• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential; tolerates poor, sandy soils once established

• Aspect: Hardy in the UK; best in a sheltered site away from cold, drying winds

• Care: Very low maintenance – prune only if needed to maintain a tight shape; water regularly in the first year until established

Key features:

• Iconic, Mediterranean-style columnar conifer

• Evergreen with dense, dark green foliage

• Naturally narrow habit – holds its shape with little pruning

• Excellent for avenues, entrances, focal points, and formal designs

• Height: up to 6–8m over time | Spread: 60–90cm