Leyland cypress © Pete Birch
Leyland cypress
Scientific name: Cupressus x leylandii
The Leyland cypress, or 'Leylandii', is a notorious tree that has been widely planted for its fast-growing nature. It easily can get out of control, shading gardens at the expense of native plants.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Height: up to 40mConservation status
Introduced, non-native species.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The Leyland cypress, or 'Leylandii', is a large evergreen tree that is widely planted in parks and gardens as an ornamental species. It shows exceptionally rapid growth and has dense foliage - both factors that make it a popular hedging species. However, it can quickly grow it excessive heights, blocking out light in gardens.How to identify
A tall, fast-growing, evergreen tree, the Leyland cypress has red-grey bark, slender and flexible twigs, and scale-like, soft leaves that form flat 'sprays'. It produces small, round, brown cones.Distribution
Widespread.Habitats
Did you know?
The Leyland cypress is actually a cultivated hybrid - a sterile cross between the Monterey cypress and the Nootka cypress, both from North America.
Bertie Gregory/2020VISION