The Cupressus sempervirens 'Stricta', commonly known as the Italian Cypress, is a striking evergreen tree renowned for its tall, slender, columnar form. This tree is a defining feature of Mediterranean landscapes, often seen lining driveways or accentuating formal gardens with its statuesque presence. It typically reaches a mature height of 12 to 20 meters, with a relatively narrow spread of 1.5 to 2 meters, making it an excellent choice for creating vertical interest in landscapes where space is limited.

Key features of the Italian Cypress include its dense foliage of dark green, aromatic scale-like leaves that cling tightly to the branches, giving the tree a smooth, elegant appearance. The bark is brownish-grey and becomes fissured with age, adding to its visual appeal. This tree produces small, globular cones that mature from green to brown and contain seeds, contributing to its ornamental value.

The Italian Cypress thrives best in full sun and well-drained soil, though it is adaptable to a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping in arid regions. While it can tolerate partial shade, optimal growth and form are achieved with ample sunlight. Notably, the Italian Cypress is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its iconic shape, and is resistant to most pests and diseases. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round visual interest, making it a versatile and enduring addition to any garden or landscape.

Tree Specs

• Common name: Italian Cypress
• Botanic name: Cupressus sempervirens ‘Stricta’
• Mature height: 12-20m
• Key features:
  • Vibrant foliage
  • Bark interest
  • Flowering
  • Suitable for all gardens