Italian Cypress Tree

Cupressus sempervirens

Nature Hills Nursery

Iconic Columnar Form Creates Instant Mediterranean Elegance in Any Landscape
Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Zones 7-10
Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
Drought Tolerant, Salt Tolerant
Excellent Privacy Screen or Mass Planting

$69⁸⁴

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Plant Size

#1 Container 1-2 Feet

Product variants

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Evergreen, Low Maintenance, Hedge/Screen, Salt Tolerant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone	7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	50-60 ft
Width	4-5 ft
Watering Needs	Low
Preferred Soil	Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Fast
Blooms In	Spring
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Cupressus sempervirens
Class	Coniferopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT

Narrow Columnar Italian Cypress Tree

Striking Columnar Shape
Accent Point
Handsome Evergreen Trees Keep Dark Green Color All Year
Classic Tree Used for Centuries
Works Beautifully in Hot, Dry Climates
Hardy and Easy to Grow

If you want to include a spectacular focal point in your landscape, go with the classic Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens). These Mediterranean Cypress trees instantly bring to mind the Tuscan landscape and the romantic pace of gracious living.

These fast-growing trees give your landscape a serious Italian style. You've seen these trees in paintings and in photographs. They show up in travel brochures and architectural renderings. Now you can add them to your own dream landscape!

Like an exclamation point in your landscape, these add a strong, straight vertical element to your Zone 7 - 10 garden. The Italian Cypress tree naturally grows straight as arrows and needs no pruning to maintain its shape.

In climates that they love, they will stay green all year. Give them full sun for best results. They handle drought well and don't need much supplemental watering once established.

Our Nature Hills Nursery trees are shipped healthy and hearty to your door. Order your Italian Cypress tree today!

How to Use Italian Cypress Trees in the Landscape

People have been using these columnar trees to line the edge of their properties for centuries. Their tall spires bring instant height and drama. They'll look fantastic lining your driveway, or serenely enhancing the perimeter of your yard.

Italian Cypress Trees make an incredible backdrop for almost any style. They'll work everywhere from contemporary to rustic gardens. Even a cottage garden could use a rugged pair of them flanking either side of a little crooked garden gate. They'll easily elevate the look and provide a wonderful sense of contrast, no matter what partner plants they are paired with.

Plant them where you want to highlight an architectural feature - by front doors, lined along a walk, or in large containers on your patio corners.

Try these vertical accents behind a special piece of statuary, bench, or garden fountain to really amp up the impact of your art investment.

Use them in an allée, or double row of individual trees for a magnificent experience at a point of transition in your garden. In this application, plant them 10 feet apart (measure from the trunk of one to the trunk of the next.)

This tree easily creates special moments or vignettes in the garden. Consider a single tree as a wonderful specimen near the entrance of a Meditation Garden.

Single trees can also provide visual punctuation at important points of transition in your garden. For instance, try one near the entrance doorway of a contemporary house as a specimen tree, it will anchor your property to its surroundings.

In today's crowded world, Italian Cypress can also work hard to deliver privacy from neighbors. Plant them 5 feet apart for a privacy screen, measuring from the trunk of one to the trunk of the other.

They are quite comfortable being planted very close together to form a dense hedge to block an unwanted view. These trees are especially useful in a narrow side yard, as they won't take up much space, but achieve impressive height.

You can also use a screen to provide shade on the south or west of your house. Plant them in a zig-zag pattern to achieve a solid screen faster.

Italian Cypress are hardy, evergreen conifers. With their tall, narrow habit, they'll bring structure to your landscape design all year long. They'll dependably keep their lush foliage almost all the way to the ground.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Italian Cypress Trees are fast-growing and tremendously drought-tolerant once established. For best results, you'll want to baby them a bit when they are first introduced to your yard.

Watch the water that first year and use the "Finger Test" to check the soil conditions under the ground. Just poke your finger into the ground near the tree. If it feels dry, give your new trees a nice, long drink. If the soil feels moist, check again in a day or two.

Their root system is deep and rarely poses a surface root problem. Italian Cypress can safely be planted 15 feet from sidewalks and driveways, measuring from the trunk of one to the trunk of the next. They are perfect privacy screens in tight side yards.

Italian Cypress trees won't grow out of bounds or cast unwanted shade. This is truly an easy plant to grow. They look impressive and will make you seem like a master gardener!

They'll really take off for you once they get established in your soil. For a faster effect, be sure to purchase the largest, oldest trees we have in stock. You'll always be pleased at the immediate impact a larger tree will have on your design.

They require very little maintenance and are adapted to a wide range of soil types, both acid and alkaline. They are particularly adapted to extremely dry and arid climates and are resistant to city contaminants.

A natural column, these trees never need pruning to keep their classic upright shape, although you can shear them if you want a very formal look. Otherwise, a simple clip will take care of any errant branch. Overall, this is a very low-maintenance tree.

Italian Cypress truly represents the pinnacle of worldly refinement. And they work beautifully on today's small lots. Order enough to complete your project today!

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Awesome

They are awesome

Dear Bill,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your enthusiasm! We’re delighted to hear that your Italian Cypress Tree is bringing you joy—'awesome' is exactly the kind of feedback we love to receive. If you ever have questions about care tips or want to maximize the beauty of your tree, feel free to reach out. Remember, these elegant trees thrive with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil, and occasional watering to keep them happy.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Awesome

They are awesome

Hi Bill,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your Italian Cypress Tree is meeting your expectations and adding such beauty to your space. If you ever have any questions about caring for it or want tips to help it thrive even more, feel free to reach out—we're always here to help. Enjoy watching your Italian Cypress grow tall and graceful!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Pruning

I found that I can just clip off the top of this tree to control its height. I have it planted near my front door so I need to control its growth. I also prune any drooping limbs to keep it looking nice. Sure like the looks this tree.

Hello Betty,

Thank you so much for sharing your pruning experience with your Italian Cypress Tree! It’s wonderful to hear how you’ve found an effective way to keep it in check by clipping the top and tidying up those drooping limbs. Italian Cypress truly adds a lovely, elegant touch near an entryway, and your care clearly helps maintain its graceful look.

As you continue pruning, just be sure to use sharp, clean tools to make precise cuts and reduce stress on the tree. Pruning in late winter or early spring is generally a good time, as the tree is gearing up for new growth. If you ever want more detailed pruning guides or advice on seasonal care, our Resource Center has some excellent tips designed specifically for evergreens like your Italian Cypress.

We truly appreciate your thoughtful feedback and are delighted to know your tree is thriving so beautifully by your front door!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Pruning

Hello Betty,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your pruning experience with your Italian Cypress Tree! We’re thrilled to hear that clipping the top and trimming any drooping limbs helps you maintain its elegant shape—especially since you have it near your front door where a tidy, impressive look matters. Italian Cypress is such a graceful option, and it sounds like you’re doing a wonderful job keeping it healthy and visually appealing!

For future pruning, a handy tip is to trim Italian Cypress in early spring or late winter before new growth starts. This timing encourages vibrant new growth without stressing the tree. Just be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid any damage or infection, and avoid cutting into old wood as it might not resprout from there.

If you’d like, we have some helpful care guides on our website about pest control and seasonal pruning that might be beneficial for maintaining your Cypress tree’s beauty year-round.

Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback—we love knowing your tree is flourishing and brightening your outdoor space.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Drought tolerant

I found this tree likes to thrive on a bit of the dry side so I planted it in full sun with some shade. My soil is mostly clay and it seems to be doing just fine in that soil. I water it every couple of weeks if we have no rain. So far so good!

Hello Sam,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Italian Cypress Tree! It’s wonderful to hear how well it’s adapting to your mostly clay soil, as these graceful trees often prefer well-draining conditions—but your success shows a little clay can be just fine, especially with the watering routine you're maintaining. Planting it in full sun with some shade sounds like a perfect spot for balancing its light needs and helping it stay healthy through dry spells.

Since you water every couple of weeks when there’s no rain, just keep an eye out during particularly hot or dry seasons—your tree may appreciate a bit of extra moisture to stay its best. Adding some organic mulch around the base can help retain soil moisture and improve your clay soil’s texture naturally over time.

If you ever have questions about nutrient needs or additional drought-resistant companions for your garden, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help support your arboreal endeavors!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall and wide does Italian Cypress get at maturity?

Italian Cypress trees typically reach 40-60 feet tall and only 3-6 feet wide at maturity, creating their signature narrow columnar shape. These fast-growing evergreens maintain their naturally straight form without pruning in Zones 7-10. Plant them with adequate spacing to accommodate their full height while taking advantage of their minimal width requirements.

How fast does Italian Cypress grow?

Italian Cypress trees are fast-growing evergreens that typically add 1-3 feet of height per year in optimal conditions. They thrive in Zones 7-10 with full sun and well-draining soil. For best growth rates, plant in spring and provide regular water the first year until established - quality specimens are available at naturehills.com.

What are the soil requirements for planting Italian Cypress, and does it need well-draining soil?

Italian Cypress thrives in well-draining soil and actually prefers poor to average soil conditions. These Mediterranean natives are drought-tolerant once established and can struggle in heavy, waterlogged soils. Plant in zones 7-10 with good drainage for best results.

Can Italian Cypress tolerate wet or poorly drained soils, or is it prone to root rot?

Italian Cypress prefers well-draining soil and can develop root rot in wet or poorly drained conditions. These Mediterranean natives thrive in hot, dry climates and handle drought well once established. Plant in areas with good drainage and avoid overwatering for best results.

Does Italian Cypress need full sun, and how much shade can it handle?

Italian Cypress requires full sun for optimal growth and color retention. While it can tolerate some light shade, too much shade will cause the tree to lose its dense, columnar shape and vibrant green color. For best results in Zones 7-10, plant in the sunniest spot available at naturehills.com.

How do I prune Italian Cypress—can I top it or cut the leader, and when?

Italian Cypress trees naturally grow straight and need no pruning to maintain their columnar shape. Avoid topping or cutting the central leader as this will ruin the tree's classic form and may cause multiple competing leaders. Light pruning of lower branches can be done in late winter if needed for clearance.

Is Italian Cypress deer resistant, fire resistant, or drought tolerant?

Italian Cypress trees are highly drought tolerant once established and need minimal supplemental watering. They thrive in hot, dry climates in zones 7-10. While not specifically fire-resistant, their Mediterranean heritage makes them well-suited to arid conditions. Plant in full sun for best drought performance.

What are common pests or diseases for Italian Cypress, like mites or bagworms?

Italian Cypress trees are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally face spider mites in hot, dry conditions and bagworms that create protective cases on branches. Cypress canker disease may affect stressed trees in humid climates. Monitor for yellowing foliage or webbing, and ensure good air circulation with proper spacing to prevent most issues.

Can I buy Italian Cypress trees online, and how should they be shipped to avoid damage?

Yes, you can buy Italian Cypress trees online and they ship well as container-grown plants. These hardy evergreens are typically shipped in protective packaging that keeps the root system intact during transit. Order during cooler months for best establishment, and plant immediately upon arrival in your Zone 7-10 garden.

Italian Cypress Tree

Cupressus sempervirens