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Leyland Cypress Tree
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Zones 6-10
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1-year guaranteeShips in 1–5 daysReal plant experts
From our farm to your front door
- Shipped in its nursery pot, so the roots stay undisturbed
- Soil secured so it stays put in transit
- Packed so the plant stays steady on the way to you
At a glance
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Water
- When the top 2" of soil is dry
- Growth & size
- Very fast growth rate; mature height of 40-60 feet and width of 15-25 feet.
- Botanical name
- Cupressus × leylandii
- Hardiness
- Zones 6-10
- Tolerates
- Heat tolerantHumidity tolerantWind tolerant
Where it grows in the groundShaded areas are the zones where it can be planted outdoors.
Not sure it'll thrive where you live?Real people who answer questions before and after planting.
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Size guide & what arrives
Size Facts
| *Trade size | **Pot size |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 6" |
| 3 gallon | 8 to 10" |
| 5 gallon | 10 to 12" |
| 7 gallon | 14" |
| 10 gallon | 15 to 17" |
| 15 gallon | 17" |
| "Jumbo" | 7 or 10 or 15 gallon |
*Nursery gallon sizes are trade sizes and do not equal standard liquid gallons.
**Pot sizes in inches refer to container width (diameter), not plant or pot height.
Please note: Sizing can differ between plant varieties and growers. Please chat with us if you need clarification.
For more information on sizing, please see our sizing guide.
What arrives
Good to know
Leyland Cypress grows rapidly and can become quite large, so regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and size. It is also sensitive to drought and may require additional watering during dry periods.
What customers are saying
5.0
out of 5 · 35 verified reviews
rated it 4 or 5 stars
Why customers love it
Healthy, well-rooted plants
Hand-selected and shipped in its nursery pot.
Delivered to your door
Skip the nursery trip. Very little car Tetris required.
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Ask us anything before or after planting.
1-year guarantee
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Care made simple
Plant it right once and it does the rest.
Sun
Full Sun
Pick the spot before you dig.
Water
When the top 2" of soil is dry
Water slowly and deeply. Check more often in its first summer.
Grows in
Zones 6-10
Enter your ZIP above to check your zone.
Your first year together
- 1Day 1
Plant it, then water slowly until the whole root ball is soaked.
- 2First few weeks
Keep the soil evenly moist while new roots settle in.
- 3First summer
Water deeply during hot, dry spells.
- 4Next spring
New growth starts. Feed as it wakes up.
Planting instructions
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Space trees appropriately for hedges to ensure healthy growth. Regular watering is essential in the first few growing seasons to establish a strong root system.
Watering & sunlight
Watering needs are never one-size-fits-all. Weather, soil type, drainage, plant size, and planting time all affect how quickly a plant dries out.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Leyland Cypress thrives in full sun to partial shade, with full sun encouraging the densest growth and healthiest foliage.
Use a slow-running hose, soaker hose, or drip system to water the root ball and surrounding root zone thoroughly. Allow the water to penetrate deeply (not just wet the top few inches of soil), and avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Before watering again, check the soil 3–4 inches deep near the root ball. If it feels dry, repeat this deep-watering process. If it feels moist or soggy, wait and check again in 1–2 days. Check the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs several times per week, especially during hot, dry, or windy weather.
Irrigation run times will vary based on flow rate, soil, and system setup.
Need help? Contact our plant experts for watering guidance tailored to your plant and growing conditions.
Leyland Cypress thrives in full sun to partial shade, with full sun encouraging the densest growth and healthiest foliage.
Care guide
What does "Jumbo" mean?
Shipping & what's inside
Your plant ships in its nursery pot with the soil secured, packed so it stays steady on the way to you.
1-year guarantee
Every plant is covered by our 1-year guarantee. If something goes wrong, contact our team and we'll walk you through it.
Answered by Simply Trees plant expertsHow much does the Leyland Cypress grow per year?
The Leyland Cypress is known for its rapid growth rate. On average, it can grow about 2 to 3 feet per year. However, under ideal growing conditions, such as well-drained soil, adequate moisture, and full sun exposure, it can grow even faster, sometimes achieving growth of up to 4 feet per year. This fast growth rate makes the Leyland Cypress a popular choice for quickly establishing privacy hedges and screens in landscapes.
How far apart should I plant Leyland Cypress?
When planting Leyland Cypress, the spacing is crucial for healthy growth and development. Generally, it's recommended to plant them about 6 to 10 feet apart. This spacing allows enough room for the trees to grow and mature without overcrowding, ensuring adequate air circulation and light penetration, which are essential for the health of the trees.
If you're planting Leyland Cypress for a privacy hedge or screen, closer spacing (about 6 feet apart) can create a denser barrier more quickly. However, for a more open, natural-looking row or if individual tree form is desired, spacing them 8 to 10 feet apart is advisable. Always consider the mature size of the trees when planning your planting to avoid future overcrowding.
If you're planting Leyland Cypress for a privacy hedge or screen, closer spacing (about 6 feet apart) can create a denser barrier more quickly. However, for a more open, natural-looking row or if individual tree form is desired, spacing them 8 to 10 feet apart is advisable. Always consider the mature size of the trees when planning your planting to avoid future overcrowding.
Where is the best place to plant Leyland Cypress trees?
The best place to plant Leyland Cypress trees is in a location that meets the following criteria:
Full Sun: Leyland Cypress trees thrive in full sunlight, so choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Well-Drained Soil: They prefer well-drained soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Avoid areas with poor drainage.
Spacing: Plant them with adequate spacing, typically 6 to 10 feet apart, to allow for healthy growth and proper air circulation.
Wind Protection: While they are relatively wind-resistant, providing some wind protection, such as a fence or other trees, can help in areas with strong winds.
Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Don't plant them in low-lying areas prone to flooding, as Leyland Cypress trees don't tolerate waterlogged soil.
Consider Future Growth: Keep in mind their mature size when planting to avoid overcrowding as they grow.
Leyland Cypress trees are often used for privacy screens, windbreaks, or as ornamental trees, so choose a location that suits your specific landscaping needs while ensuring they have the right environmental conditions for healthy growth.
Full Sun: Leyland Cypress trees thrive in full sunlight, so choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Well-Drained Soil: They prefer well-drained soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Avoid areas with poor drainage.
Spacing: Plant them with adequate spacing, typically 6 to 10 feet apart, to allow for healthy growth and proper air circulation.
Wind Protection: While they are relatively wind-resistant, providing some wind protection, such as a fence or other trees, can help in areas with strong winds.
Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Don't plant them in low-lying areas prone to flooding, as Leyland Cypress trees don't tolerate waterlogged soil.
Consider Future Growth: Keep in mind their mature size when planting to avoid overcrowding as they grow.
Leyland Cypress trees are often used for privacy screens, windbreaks, or as ornamental trees, so choose a location that suits your specific landscaping needs while ensuring they have the right environmental conditions for healthy growth.
When is the best time to plant Leyland cypress trees?
The best time to plant Leyland Cypress trees is during the late winter or early spring, typically from late February to early April, before the active growing season begins. Planting during this period allows the trees to establish their roots before the onset of hot summer weather.
However, if you're in an area with mild winters, you can also plant Leyland Cypress trees in the fall, preferably in early to mid-fall. Planting in the fall allows the trees to acclimate to the soil before winter sets in.
Avoid planting in the peak of summer heat or during freezing winter conditions, as extreme temperatures can stress the young trees. Planting in the recommended seasons helps ensure the best chances of successful establishment and healthy growth.
However, if you're in an area with mild winters, you can also plant Leyland Cypress trees in the fall, preferably in early to mid-fall. Planting in the fall allows the trees to acclimate to the soil before winter sets in.
Avoid planting in the peak of summer heat or during freezing winter conditions, as extreme temperatures can stress the young trees. Planting in the recommended seasons helps ensure the best chances of successful establishment and healthy growth.
Which is better, Green Giant or Leyland Cypress?
The choice between Thuja Green Giant and Leyland Cypress depends on your specific landscaping needs and preferences:
Thuja Green Giant:
Pros: Fast-growing, dense foliage, easy to maintain, deer-resistant, cold-hardy.
Cons: Slightly more susceptible to some pests and diseases.
Leyland Cypress:
Pros: Very fast-growing, dense screening, low maintenance, drought-tolerant.
Cons: Slightly less cold-hardy, can be prone to certain diseases in humid climates.
Ultimately, the choice may come down to factors like your climate, desired growth rate, and specific pest or disease concerns. Both are popular choices for privacy screens and windbreaks, so consider your local conditions and preferences when making your decision.
Thuja Green Giant:
Pros: Fast-growing, dense foliage, easy to maintain, deer-resistant, cold-hardy.
Cons: Slightly more susceptible to some pests and diseases.
Leyland Cypress:
Pros: Very fast-growing, dense screening, low maintenance, drought-tolerant.
Cons: Slightly less cold-hardy, can be prone to certain diseases in humid climates.
Ultimately, the choice may come down to factors like your climate, desired growth rate, and specific pest or disease concerns. Both are popular choices for privacy screens and windbreaks, so consider your local conditions and preferences when making your decision.
How often should I water my Leyland Cypress?
Leyland Cypress should be watered regularly, especially during its first year of growth, to help establish its root system. Here's a general guideline for watering:
First Year: Water deeply once a week during the first year, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Subsequent Years: Once the Leyland Cypress is established (usually after the first year), you can reduce watering to during dry spells or when the soil appears dry. Established trees are relatively drought-tolerant.
It's important not to over-water, as waterlogged soil can lead to root problems. Checking the soil moisture by digging a few inches down is a good practice. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Proper watering is essential for the health and vitality of Leyland Cypress trees.
First Year: Water deeply once a week during the first year, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Subsequent Years: Once the Leyland Cypress is established (usually after the first year), you can reduce watering to during dry spells or when the soil appears dry. Established trees are relatively drought-tolerant.
It's important not to over-water, as waterlogged soil can lead to root problems. Checking the soil moisture by digging a few inches down is a good practice. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Proper watering is essential for the health and vitality of Leyland Cypress trees.
Can you prune Leyland Cypress?
Yes, you can prune Leyland Cypress. Pruning can help maintain the shape, size, and density of the tree, and it's often done to create formal hedges or screens. However, Leyland Cypress is a fast-growing tree, so regular pruning may be necessary to keep it in check. Pruning is typically done during the late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning tools and avoid cutting too much at once, as Leyland Cypress can respond with vigorous new growth.
Why is my Leyland Cypress turning brown?
Several factors can cause Leyland Cypress to turn brown:
Drought Stress: Insufficient watering, especially during dry periods, can lead to browning of the foliage. Ensure the soil is consistently moist, especially when the tree is young or during hot weather.
Poor Drainage: Leyland Cypress prefers well-drained soil. Waterlogged or compacted soil can cause root problems and browning. Improve drainage if necessary.
Disease or Pest Infestation: Leyland Cypress can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests, such as canker diseases or spider mites. Inspect the tree for signs of disease or pests and treat accordingly.
Winter Damage: Harsh winter conditions, including cold winds or ice, can cause browning of foliage. Providing winter protection or planting in a sheltered location can help.
Overcrowding: If Leyland Cypress trees are planted too closely together, they may compete for nutrients and sunlight, leading to browning of lower branches.
To address the issue, identify the specific cause of browning and take appropriate steps to remedy it. Consulting with a local arborist or horticulturist can also provide valuable guidance for maintaining the health of your Leyland Cypress.
Drought Stress: Insufficient watering, especially during dry periods, can lead to browning of the foliage. Ensure the soil is consistently moist, especially when the tree is young or during hot weather.
Poor Drainage: Leyland Cypress prefers well-drained soil. Waterlogged or compacted soil can cause root problems and browning. Improve drainage if necessary.
Disease or Pest Infestation: Leyland Cypress can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests, such as canker diseases or spider mites. Inspect the tree for signs of disease or pests and treat accordingly.
Winter Damage: Harsh winter conditions, including cold winds or ice, can cause browning of foliage. Providing winter protection or planting in a sheltered location can help.
Overcrowding: If Leyland Cypress trees are planted too closely together, they may compete for nutrients and sunlight, leading to browning of lower branches.
To address the issue, identify the specific cause of browning and take appropriate steps to remedy it. Consulting with a local arborist or horticulturist can also provide valuable guidance for maintaining the health of your Leyland Cypress.
What is the best climate for Leyland Cypress?
The Leyland Cypress thrives in a mild to warm climate with moderate rainfall. It prefers a climate with:
Mild Winters: Leyland Cypress is not frost-tolerant and does best in areas with mild winter temperatures.
Warm Summers: It grows well in regions with warm, but not excessively hot, summers.
Moderate Rainfall: Leyland Cypress prefers consistent moisture, so areas with moderate rainfall or access to irrigation are ideal.
Protection from Harsh Conditions: Providing some protection from strong winds and severe weather can help the tree flourish.
It's important to note that Leyland Cypress can be sensitive to extreme cold, drought, and high humidity, so the specific climate conditions of your area should be considered when planting and caring for these trees.
Mild Winters: Leyland Cypress is not frost-tolerant and does best in areas with mild winter temperatures.
Warm Summers: It grows well in regions with warm, but not excessively hot, summers.
Moderate Rainfall: Leyland Cypress prefers consistent moisture, so areas with moderate rainfall or access to irrigation are ideal.
Protection from Harsh Conditions: Providing some protection from strong winds and severe weather can help the tree flourish.
It's important to note that Leyland Cypress can be sensitive to extreme cold, drought, and high humidity, so the specific climate conditions of your area should be considered when planting and caring for these trees.
Why is the inside of my Leyland Cypress turning brown?
The inside of a Leyland Cypress turning brown is often a natural part of the tree's growth. As these trees mature, their inner branches may receive less sunlight, causing them to lose their needles and turn brown. This inner browning is typically not a cause for concern, as long as the outer foliage remains healthy and green.
However, if the browning extends to the outer branches or is accompanied by other signs of stress, such as disease or pest infestation, it's essential to investigate further and take appropriate action. Regular pruning and maintenance can help improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, potentially reducing inner browning.
However, if the browning extends to the outer branches or is accompanied by other signs of stress, such as disease or pest infestation, it's essential to investigate further and take appropriate action. Regular pruning and maintenance can help improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, potentially reducing inner browning.
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