Mediterranean Cypress
Cupressus sempervirens
Also listed as Cupressus horizontalis, Chamaecyparis thujiformis
Also known as Italian Cypress, Pencil Cypress, Common Cypress
Climate Match for your location
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A tall, narrow evergreen conifer with dark green foliage forming a distinctive columnar silhouette, commonly used as a striking accent or windbreak in Mediterranean-style gardens. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrives in hot, sunny locations.
Why grow it
Mediterranean cypress offers a narrow vertical form that few conifers match, making it valuable where space is constrained or strong vertical lines are desired in landscape composition. Compared to other drought-tolerant conifers like Italian stone pine or Aleppo pine, it establishes faster and requires minimal water once developed, though it performs best in warm climates with low humidity.
Watch out for
This species is sensitive to excess moisture and poor drainage, particularly in humid regions where fungal issues become more common. Growth can be uneven or sparse if stressed during establishment, and mature trees can become top-heavy in high winds despite their columnar shape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
'Stricta' is the most common narrow columnar form, while 'Glauca' features striking silvery-blue foliage and is valued for ornamental impact.
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tall, narrow evergreen conifer with dark green foliage forming a distinctive columnar silhouette, commonly used as a striking accent or windbreak in Mediterranean-style gardens. Extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrives in hot, sunny locations.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Mediterranean Cypress grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Mediterranean cypress offers a narrow vertical form that few conifers match, making it valuable where space is constrained or strong vertical lines are desired in landscape composition. Compared to other drought-tolerant conifers like Italian stone pine or Aleppo pine, it establishes faster and requires minimal water once developed, though it performs best in warm climates with low humidity.
Watch out for
This species is sensitive to excess moisture and poor drainage, particularly in humid regions where fungal issues become more common. Growth can be uneven or sparse if stressed during establishment, and mature trees can become top-heavy in high winds despite their columnar shape.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
'Stricta' is the most common narrow columnar form, while 'Glauca' features striking silvery-blue foliage and is valued for ornamental impact.