Cupressus sempervirens

Italian cypress is a tall evergreen tree with blue-green needles in the Cupressaceae (cypress) family.  Its native habitat includes a rocky mountainous location, typically near a coastline in Europe and Asia.   The commercially available forms are more columnar in shape and will typically not be seen in the wild. Its rapid growth is evident in young trees.  However, more mature trees experience slower, almost nonexistent growth.  The Latin word sempervirens translates into 'always green'.   

Becoming highly drought tolerant as the plant ages, young plants should receive adequate watering until established. To maintain its columnar habit, it should not be pruned, thus making this a low maintenance choice for your garden.  If transplanting is necessary, April and September are the best months, as the roots are actively growing.  

Use this columnar evergreen as an accent or planted in a row for screening.  It is moderately salt-tolerant and to breakage by wind.  Its wood retains its fragrance even after cutting as well as being hard and durable.  These traits make it an excellent choice for cabinets and wardrobes.  The ongoing fragrance will repel moths.  

Cones can remain on a tree for a number of years.  They often open by the heat generated by a forest fire, at which time the seeds will be dispersed and germinate in ash from the fire.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Infestations of mites is a common issue.  Bagworms are an occasional problem.  Root rot can occur in poor drainage locations.  Honey fungus and canker affect many trees.  

VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I:  Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II:  Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University