Leyland Cypress x Hesperotropsis leylandii

This plant is problematic and alternatives should be considered.  Please see the suggestions in the left-hand column or this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

The Leyland cypress is a hybrid, fast-growing, upright, needled evergreen tree in the cypress family (Cupressaceae). The genus is named after Christopher Leyland, on whose property in England two North American species of conifers, Monterey cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa) and Nootka cypress (Callitropsis nootkatensis), accidentally cross-pollinated. 

This tree thrives in a variety of soil types and sites. In the early years, it can grow up to 3 feet per year, and it has been known to reach 50 feet in height in 15 years. Because the roots are relatively shallow, it is poorly adapted to areas with hot summers. Large specimens tend to topple over.  Typically, these trees live 20 to 50 years, depending on the environment. They can be propagated from stem cuttings. Any viable seed may not be true to the mother plant.  

The tree has scaly reddish-brown bark and attractive sprays of blue-green needles. The branches grow upright and do not droop. This strong structure is resistant to breakage. It also takes well to severe pruning, recovering well from severe topping. With a symmetrical canopy and smooth outline, multiple specimens will have identical crown forms. The tree is severely pest- and disease-prone and must be pruned regularly to maintain a tidy appearance.

In the Piedmont and Coastal Plain of North Carolina, it is sometimes grown to be sold as Christmas trees.

Quick ID

• Elongated spray
• Concolorous spray
• Branches and primary brackets have spiral twist
• Leaves intermediate to scale-like

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Leyland cypress is prone to many treatable and untreatable problems. Bagworm is a serious issue; bagworms can defoliate an entire tree in a matter of a few weeks. It is also susceptible to canker and root rot, specifically Armillaria and Phytophthora root rots, and Seiridium and Botryosphaeria canker. Canker typically affects a tree following a period of drought.  Both the root rots and cankers are incurable. Foliage can cause skin irritation. Wear gloves when handling.  The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common pests and diseases

VIDEO Created by Homegrown featuring Jeff Owen, Area Extension Forestry Specialist for NC State Extension