Cupressocyparis leylandii is an evergreen conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family. It is a hybrid obtained from the cross between Cupressus macrocarpa and Chamaecyparis nootkatensis. This cross gives the plant a unique combination of vigor, hardiness, and resistance.

Leylandii is known for its exceptionally fast growth, with the ability to reach up to one meter of growth per year under favorable conditions. In free cultivation, it can easily reach 20-25 meters in height, with a width of 4-6 meters, but it can be easily kept lower with regular pruning, making it ideal for creating dense, tall, and screening hedges.

Its habit is columnar or pyramidal, with a compact and dense structure that ensures total coverage of the view in a short time. The leaves are scaly, bright dark green in color, densely arranged along the branches, and persistent throughout the year. The young branches are thin, green or brownish in color, while the bark of mature plants is fibrous, gray-brown, with cracks.

Cupressocyparis leylandii is a very hardy plant, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -15°C. It prefers sunny or partially shaded positions but also adapts well to more challenging conditions, such as windy exposures and coastal environments. It thrives in well-drained soils but can also tolerate short periods of drought once well-established.

Thanks to its fast growth and dense foliage, it is widely used for: windbreaks, ornamental hedges.

However, due to its vigorous growth, it requires regular maintenance, especially in hedges: at least one or two prunings per year are recommended to keep it compact and in shape. It is also resistant to air pollution, making it suitable for use in urban environments and industrial areas.

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