Accession Count: 0
Common Name:
Leyland cypress
Family Name:
Cupressaceae
Botanical Name:
Cupressus × leylandii
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
Compound:
Cup x ley
Geographic Origin:
Great Britain
Ecozone Origin:
Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
The Leyland Cypress is a genetic cross between a Monterey Cypress and Nootka False Cypress. This tree gets its rapid growth from the Monterey and its hardiness from the Nootka (1). Both parent trees are from the United States. The first cross of these two trees was in Wales in 1888 (2). Since the creation of the Leyland, crosses between the Monterey and the Nootka have not been successful (2). This tree has long green branches that have a tint of blue when fully grown (3). The Leyland Cypress is extreme tall and grows rapidly, at least three feet each year (3).
Cultivation Notes:
The Leyland Cypress needs full sun to grow, the best planting time is in February, allowing the root system to establish before it reaches its first growing season (3). When not pruned in the spring the Leyland Cypress has a dense, oval outline (3). The Leyland trees requires moderate watering, excessive watering and these trees will rot and develop fungal infections (1). These trees can tolerate a slight drought, and live in various types of soil allowing them to inhabit many different places. Which is why many of these trees are located all across the United States (3).
Ethnobotany:
This tree species is used as a non allergenic Christmas tree for many people during the holiday season (4). Leyland Cypresses makes great hedges which create privacy barrier, reduce noise, and reduce wind (5). They keep their beautiful green color the entire year and provides a habitat for birds during the cold winters (3).
Height:
50 - 100 feet
Width:
20 - 50 feet
Growth Rate:
Fast Growing
Grow Season:
ForeSummer
Flower Season:
Spring
Color:
Brown
Function:
Screen
Spread:
Spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Invasive
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Semi-hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
