Cypress Trees

What is a Cypress Tree?

Cypress Trees are an expansive group of fast growing evergreen trees that produce cones. These conifers or coniferous trees are known botanically as Cupressus. Cypresses are grown all over the world. Different Cypress varieties are native to Africa, North America, South America, Australia, Europe, and Asia. Cypress trees are often used in privacy screens or alone as a focal tree in home landscapes.

How to Prune a Cypress Tree

Cypress Trees do not require pruning. In fact certain types of pruning, like topping, can forever change the shape of your tree which is fine if you are creating a hedge. Otherwise avoid this type of pruning. When to prune Cypress Trees? The best time to prune Cypresses is in early spring, but minor trimming can be done at anytime. Avoid pruning in late fall. Pruning encourages new growth that is tender and can be damaged by extreme temperatures.

Why is My Cypress Tree Turning Brown?

Cypress Trees turn brown for a variety of reasons, some more serious than others. Natural browning of older leaves and needles occurs prior to growing new foliage. Drought is the most common reason trees turn brown, but too much water can be an issue too. Drought tends to lead to crispy foliage where excess water causes brown, but soft foliage and can lead to root rot. Bronzing in winter is normal for many evergreen trees. It is caused by drought, wind, and sun. Most plants green up in spring. A thick layer of mulch and good watering prior to deep freezes can help reduce winter desiccation and browning. Disease and pests can also cause browning. For identification and a treatment plan, speak with a professional arborist or your local extension agent. 

How Fast Do Cypress Trees Grow?

Cypress Trees are fast growing trees that are excellent for privacy hedges or specimen plantings. The Leyland Cypress grows 3 to 5 feet per year. The Italian Cypress and Arizona Cypress Trees like the Carolina Sapphire can grow 2 to 3 feet per year.

How to Plant a Cypress Tree

Dig a hole about twice the width of the root ball and almost as deep as it is tall. Place your tree evenly in the hole. Be sure the top of the root ball is slightly higher than the existing soil line and backfill with soil you dug out. Water deeply until the water begins to pool. Apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch to help the soil retain moisture, protect the roots, and reduce weeds. Water deeply every day for the first week and twice weekly for the following 2 to 3 months until your tree is established. Water once weekly during the first summer, especially if you are in the south or any hot climate. 

How to Care for Cypress Trees

Cypress care is extremely easy once your tree is established in the landscape. These evergreen trees are drought tolerant and prefer full sun and acidic soil, but are quite adaptable. Use pine straw or pine bark mulch to help add acidity to your soil over time. Fertilize Cypress Trees in spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer if they need a boost. 

Featured Cypress Varieties

Carolina Sapphire Cypress

Cupressus Arizonica var. glabra 'Carolina Sapphire'

Growing Zones 6, 7, 8, 9

Mature Size: 20 to 30 feet tall and 12 to 20 feet wide

The Carolina Sapphire Cypress is a unique blue tree that is drought tolerant as well as deer, disease, and pest resistant. This tree is a stunner as a focal tree or a funky hedge or privacy screen. And the best part...it is a fast grower too!

Italian Cypress Tree

Cupressus sempervirens

Growing Zones 7, 8, 9, 10

Mature Size: 50 feet tall and 4 to 5 feet wide

Make a statement with the stunning elegance of the Italian Cypress. Talk about a show stopper; the Mediterranean Cypress tree is a living column! Perfect for customers with narrow spaces and small yards that want a tree that will provide year round impact and increase property value!

Leyland Cypress

Cupressus X leylandii

Growing Zones 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

If you are looking for a large evergreen that will provide fast privacy, look no further than the Leyland Cypress Tree. This drought tolerant, fast growing privacy tree has been a landscape staple for years! 

Shop Evergreen Trees and Arborvitae Trees for similar options.