Cupressus sempervirens

A classic evergreen that brings strong vertical structure and a distinctly Mediterranean character to any garden. Beautiful planted in rows along a drive, dotted across terraces or grouped in cloud gardens.

Italian cypress is one of the most iconic plants of Mediterranean landscape, defining the Tuscan, Provençal and Greek garden traditions for thousands of years. It maintains its narrow columnar form without pruning, reaching 15–25 m tall and only 60–100 cm wide in classic cultivars like 'Stricta' and 'Totem'. Active growth occurs in spring and autumn, slowing in summer; small cones develop year-round but are inconspicuous. The fine dark green foliage is aromatic when crushed, releasing a clean resinous scent. Hardy to -15°C, the tree is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established and resistant to fire, salt, alkaline soil and strong wind.

Italian cypress is the strongest vertical accent available to Mediterranean gardens. Plant in pairs to frame doorways, gates and viewpoints; in formal rows along driveways and property boundaries; in regular spacing as the architectural rhythm of a parterre or formal garden. A single specimen in a courtyard creates a strong calligraphic mark against light walls. The dark vertical form contrasts beautifully with the spreading horizontal canopies of Olea europaea, Pinus pinea and Quercus ilex, and with the rounded forms of Lavandula, Salvia rosmarinus and Cistus. Avoid planting near buildings or paths — the roots are aggressive and can damage foundations and hard surfaces over decades.