Buy chamaecyparis (cypress)
The Chamaecyparis hedge, also known as Californian cypress, false cypress, or simply cypress hedge, is an evergreen conifer that is perfectly suited for creating a natural boundary. Heijnen offers four different types of hedge cypresses: two from the Chamaecyparis genus and two from the hybrid Cupressocyparis. Chamaecyparis is a true botanical species within the cypress family (Cupressaceae). Examples include Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Columnaris Glauca’ (blue hedge conifer) and Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Ivonne' (yellow hedge conifer). Chamaecyparis originates from North America, Japan, and Taiwan. The name Chamaecyparis derives from the Greek ‘chamai’ (low) and ‘kyparissos’ (cypress). The plant has a spiritual meaning as a tree of mourning and eternity and is often used in Japanese temple gardens. Cupressocyparis is a hybrid genus (crossbreed) created from the crossing of a Cupressus and a Chamaecyparis. The best known is Cupressocyparis leylandii (Leylandii), a fast grower widely used for hedges. With a growth rate of about 70–100 cm per year, the Cupressocyparis hedge grows significantly faster than the Chamaecyparis hedge, which averages 30–50 cm per year. Both types are not only relatively fast-growing but also evergreen, hardy, and densely branched when pruned in time. In addition, they tolerate pruning extremely well. These combined qualities make the cypress an excellent hedge plant, offering both privacy and colour in the garden. Chamaecyparis is somewhat finer, with graceful foliage and more colour variations (blue, yellow, green). Cupressocyparis grows denser more quickly, has slightly coarser foliage, and retains the classic dark green colour.
Properties and characteristics of hedge cypresses
A Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis hedge can be used in a variety of ways in our gardens. Thanks to their qualities (evergreen, hardy, and easily pruned), these conifers are particularly well suited as hedge plants. Whereas Chamaecyparis is valued for its graceful foliage and colour variation, Cupressocyparis (Leylandii) excels in rapid growth and quick screening. Below are the key characteristics of Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis hedges, which clearly illustrate why these cypresses are so popular as garden hedges:
Growth habit and height: Chamaecyparis (false cypress) has a compact, upright, and often conical to columnar growth habit. The branches are finely branched and bear scale-like foliage lying close to the twigs. As a hedge plant, Chamaecyparis is used for hedges between 2 and 6 metres high. Left unpruned, some varieties can reach 20–30 metres. Cupressocyparis (Leylandii) grows strongly upright and very vigorously. The branches grow closely together, quickly forming a dense structure. The foliage is coarser than that of Chamaecyparis but produces a full and solid hedge. As a hedge plant, Cupressocyparis is used for hedges between 3 and 6 metres high. Left unpruned, some varieties can also reach 20–30 metres.Foliage structure and colour: Chamaecyparis has fine, scale-like foliage arranged in overlapping layers along the branches. This creates a soft, compact structure that gives the hedge an elegant appearance. The colour varies by cultivar from dark green to blue-grey or golden yellow, retaining its colour through winter, sometimes with a subtle bronze tinge. Cupressocyparis (Leylandii) also has scale-like foliage, but it is coarser in texture and more densely branched. This results in a very full and impenetrable hedge. The colour is usually an intense dark green or blue-green, giving the hedge a robust and vigorous character.Growth rate of the cypress: the growth rate of Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis hedges varies by species. Chamaecyparis, also known as false cypress, grows on average about 30 to 50 centimetres per year. Thanks to this moderate growth, the plant develops into a dense, uniform hedge that requires less intensive maintenance. Cupressocyparis, better known as Leylandii, is renowned for its exceptionally fast growth. At a rate of 70 to 100 centimetres per year, it is among the fastest-growing hedge conifers. This makes Leylandii ideal for those seeking quick privacy or screening, although it does require regular pruning to maintain shape.Evergreen: The cypress hedge belongs to the category of evergreen conifers. This means they retain their foliage throughout the year, providing a dense, green boundary even in winter. In Chamaecyparis, the fine, scale-like foliage remains compact and colourfast. Cupressocyparis (Leylandii) shows coarser, deeper green foliage that maintains its full appearance even during the coldest months.Planting position: cypresses grow best in a sunny to partially shaded location in moist, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Full shade and waterlogged soil are unsuitable. Adequate space and shelter from strong winds encourage a healthy, dense, and robust hedge.Soil conditions: Cypress species prefer moist, well-drained soil that is neither too wet nor too dry. Excess moisture can cause root rot, while overly dry conditions may lead to drought stress and a less dense hedge. A soil that is slightly acidic to neutral is best tolerated (very chalky soils are less suitable for cypress hedges). In addition, these plants benefit from fertile soil enriched with organic matter (compost, Heijnen planting soil or potting soil), which supports growth and deeper root development.Hardiness: depending on the variety, Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis withstand temperatures between -15 °C and -20 °C without difficulty. Some cultivars are even more frost-resistant. This makes these hedge plants highly suitable for gardens in Western and Central Europe, where cold winters with frost are common. Thanks to their evergreen character, they also retain a dense, sheltering appearance in winter.Pruning tolerance: the cypress hedge, both Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis (Leylandii), is renowned for its excellent tolerance of pruning. Both species respond well to cutting back and remain compact and opaque. Chamaecyparis grows moderately and generally requires pruning once or twice per year. Cupressocyparis grows faster and requires more frequent maintenance, usually two to three cuts per year. It is important not to cut back too deeply into old wood, as cypresses recover less well from this. With regular and correct pruning, both species form a dense, neat hedge that provides privacy and shelter for many years.Flowering: the flowering of cypress hedges is inconspicuous and plays no major role in their ornamental value. In spring, small male catkins appear that release pollen, along with female flowers that develop into round cones. Although the flowering is modest, these cones contribute to the recognisable character of cypresses.
What are the possible uses of a Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis hedge?
Cypresses can be used in many different ways in the garden. Our hedge specialists have listed the possibilities below, based on functional, aesthetic, ecological, and practical applications.
1. Functional applications in the garden
Privacy: thanks to its dense, finely branched growth, the cypress hedge is ideal for preventing unwanted views. Even in smaller gardens, it provides a green, natural wall that guarantees year-round privacy.Windbreak: with its compact structure, the cypress hedge acts as an effective windbreak, creating a sheltered garden environment. This is not only pleasant for people but also protects sensitive plants from drying winds and frost.Noise reduction: a cypress hedge functions as a natural buffer that can reduce surrounding noise to some extent. This helps to soften traffic sounds or noise from neighbours, giving the garden a more tranquil atmosphere.Security: the height and density of a hedge cypress make it difficult for unwanted visitors to access the property. As such, the hedge serves not only as an attractive boundary but also as an additional layer of security.
2. Decorative applications in the garden
Formal, design gardens: a cypress hedge is ideal for creating clean lines and symmetrical shapes in the garden. With regular pruning, the hedge keeps its shape and contributes to a sleek and structured appearance.Natural and country-style gardens: when pruned less strictly, the hedge adds an organic and lush character to the garden. This makes it particularly suitable for gardens with a more relaxed, natural atmosphere.Colour contrasts: cypress hedges, especially Chamaecyparis, are available in different shades of green and even golden yellow, making them excellent for contrasting with other plants in the garden. They can serve as a calm backdrop or as a striking colour accent.Background planting: as a green wall, the Cupressocyparis hedge forms a neutral backdrop for flowering borders or ornamental shrubs. This allows colourful plants and perennials to stand out more effectively.
3. Ecological applications with a cypress hedge
Shelter for birds: the dense branches of a cypress hedge provide not only privacy but also a safe nesting and hiding place for birds. In this way, the hedge contributes to increased biodiversity in the garden.Source of food: insects and small animals find shelter and food in and around the hedge. This, in turn, attracts birds and other beneficial wildlife, helping to maintain ecological balance in the garden.
4. Practical applications with Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis
Boundary (as a hedge): a cypress hedge is an environmentally friendly alternative to a fence or wall. It gives the garden a year-round green appearance while also clearly marking the property line.Dividing zones in the garden: in larger gardens, the hedge can be used to create different zones. For example, seating areas, play spaces, and vegetable gardens can be separated from each other.Border or container plant: smaller varieties of Chamaecyparis or specific cultivars can also be used as specimen plants, particularly dwarf cypresses. In addition to being planted as a hedge, some varieties are also suitable as border plants or container plants.
Combining Chamaecyparis (Californian cypress) with other plants
A cypress hedge combines beautifully with a wide range of garden plants. Thanks to its evergreen character and dense branching, the hedge forms a calm and year-round colourful boundary, regardless of the season. With different shades of green, from fresh to deep dark, you can create striking contrasts and atmospheric gardens. Complement this with plants that pair well with Chamaecyparis, and you have the foundation for a dream garden. Our plant experts have listed the most attractive combinations:
Perennials: flowering and colourful species such as coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), lupin (Lupinus), and sage (Salvia nemorosa) contrast beautifully with the foliage of the cypress. Delphiniums (Delphinium) and Japanese anemones (Anemone hupehensis) also provide lively seasonal highlights along the hedge.Ground covers: at the base of the hedge, ground covers create a smooth transition and prevent bare patches. Attractive companions include lady’s mantle (Alchemilla mollis), barrenwort (Epimedium), or the evergreen periwinkle (Vinca minor), which forms a year-round green carpet in the garden.Ornamental grasses: airy grasses add movement and contrast against the clean lines of the hedge. Fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis), and blue fescue (Festuca glauca) enhance the atmosphere and remain decorative into winter, especially when frosted with white twigs sparkling with frost and rime.Shrubs: the neutral backdrop of a cypress hedge makes flowering shrubs stand out even more. Consider hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata), dogwood (Cornus alba) with its striking winter stems, or the early-flowering viburnum (Viburnum bodnantense), which add both colour and fragrance to the garden. Together with the cypress hedge and trees, these shrubs form the structural framework of the garden.Trees and multi-stemmed shrubs: for a layered garden design, a cypress hedge pairs beautifully with specimen trees. A Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), ornamental crab apple (Malus toringo), or multi-stemmed serviceberry (Amelanchier lamarckii) add height, seasonal blossom, and autumn colour.Ecological combinations: for a wildlife-friendly garden, cypress hedges can be combined with berry- and nectar-bearing shrubs. Firethorn (Pyracantha) and Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) provide both food and shelter for birds and insects while adding colour and structure to the garden. In short, a win-win for both people and wildlife.
The right location and soil for a cypress hedge
The success of a cypress hedge strongly depends on the correct location, soil structure, and proper ground preparation. This evergreen hedge grows best in a fertile, well-drained soil rich in humus and organic matter. Sandy, clay, and loamy soils are all suitable, provided they are sufficiently aerated. An important point of attention is that the soil must not remain waterlogged for long periods, as cypresses do not tolerate “wet feet” and are prone to root rot. On heavy clay soils, it is advisable to improve the soil structure by mixing coarse sand and compost into the ground. This improves drainage and prevents water from accumulating around the roots. Especially young cypress hedges need extra water during dry periods in order to establish properly. Evenly moist, but not waterlogged soil is the key to healthy root development. On dry sandy soils, extra organic matter, such as compost or potting soil, can be added to retain moisture longer and increase fertility. It is recommended to fertilise twice a year: in early spring (March/April) and at the beginning of summer (June/July). This stimulates strong, dense, and fresh growth. A neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6 to 7) is ideal. Very chalky soil can hinder the growth of the cypress hedge, while strongly acidic soils can be improved with lime or rock dust. A cypress hedge grows best in a sunny to partially shaded position. The more sunlight the hedge receives, the denser, fuller, and more compact it will develop (with timely pruning). In deep shade, the hedge will remain green but grow more openly, thus losing opacity. During the first years after planting, shelter from strong winds (for example with a windbreak fabric) can support root development and help young plants establish better in the soil. Once mature, the hedge itself can function perfectly as a windbreak.
Would you like to plant a cypress hedge and enjoy a healthy, full, and opaque boundary for many years? Then make sure to provide:
A cypress hedge grows best in a sunny or partially shaded position, with more sunlight ensuring denser and more compact growth.
The hedge requires fertile, humus-rich, and well-drained soil.
Prolonged waterlogging must be avoided, as this can lead to root rot and plant loss.
In the first years after planting and during dry summers, it is important to provide sufficient water so that the young cypress hedges establish well.
By fertilising twice a year, in early spring (March/April) and in summer (June/July), the hedge remains strong, healthy, and neatly compact.
Applying a mulch layer of bark or leaf compost helps to retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and stimulate soil life.
Tip from our cypress grower: when planting Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis, use Heijnen planting soil to promote root development and establishment. This way, the cypress hedge will grow more quickly into a dense, full, and compact hedge.
Planting a Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis hedge
Proper soil preparation and the right planting technique are the keys to success when establishing cypresses. A Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis can be planted either in pots or with a root ball, each option having its own advantages and disadvantages. Cypresses grown in pots have the major benefit that the root system remains intact when planted. As a result, the plants establish almost immediately and continue growing quickly. A Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis in pots can therefore be planted almost year-round, as long as the soil is not frozen. With sufficient soil warmth (in spring, summer, and autumn), the plant will also start to grow straight away. Cypresses with root balls are usually planted only in spring or autumn, when the plant is dormant. Since the roots are partially damaged during lifting in the nursery, it takes a little longer for the plant to become well established in the garden. On the other hand, planting root ball specimens is quicker, as no pot needs to be removed. Planting a cypress hedge should always begin with thorough soil preparation. Loosen the planting trench well and mix compost or Heijnen planting soil into the earth. This immediately provides Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis with an airy and fertile base in which the roots can establish easily. On sandy soil, enriching with organic matter is important to improve water retention, while heavy clay soil should be lightened by adding sand or compost. Finally, the correct planting distance is essential to achieve a full, dense cypress hedge. The larger the plants purchased, the fewer are required per linear metre. A general guideline for the correct number of plants is:
For Chamaecyparis:
Cypress hedge (Chamaecyparis) 60–80 cm, 80–100 cm, 100–120 cm – 3 plants per linear metreCypress hedge (Chamaecyparis) 100–140 cm, 140–160 cm – 2.5 plants per linear metreCypress hedge (Chamaecyparis) 160–180 cm, 180–200 cm, 200–225 cm – 2 plants per linear metre
For Cupressocyparis:
Cypress hedge (Cupressocyparis) 60–80 cm, 80–100 cm – 3.5 plants per linear metreCypress hedge (Cupressocyparis) 100–125 cm, 125–150 cm – 3 plants per linear metreCypress hedge (Cupressocyparis) 150–175 cm, 175–200 cm – 2.5 plants per linear metre
Important points when planting cypress hedges:
Always plant the cypresses at the same depth as they were in the pot or root ball.
Firm the soil well after planting to ensure no air pockets remain around the roots.
Water generously immediately after planting and continue watering regularly in the first months. This is especially crucial during dry summers for healthy root development and successful establishment.
Apply a mulch layer (such as bark or cocoa shells) to retain moisture and protect the soil from drying out.
With the right preparation and care, a cypress hedge (both Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis) will grow into a dense, evergreen hedge within a few years, providing not only privacy but also a refined and elegant appearance in the garden. For those wishing to follow the entire planting process step by step, we refer to our detailed hedge planting instructions .
Tip from our hedge specialist: would you like an instant tall, opaque hedge? Then choose larger cypresses at planting. These provide immediate volume and will grow faster into a full, dense screen.
Proper care and maintenance of a cypress hedge (Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis)
Like any other hedge plant, a cypress hedge requires the right care and maintenance. This begins even before planting with proper soil preparation. Once the cypresses are in the ground, it is important to provide them with the right care so they can develop into a strong, dense, and evergreen hedge. Below you will find the most important care and maintenance points for a cypress hedge:
Planting a cypress hedge
Pot-grown cypresses: cypresses grown in pots can be planted almost year-round, provided there is no severe frost or extreme heat. The best seasons are spring and autumn, as plants do not face extreme heat but benefit from optimal soil temperatures, allowing roots to establish well, provided the soil is sufficiently moist. The risk of losses with pot-grown cypresses, when given the correct care, is generally negligible.Root ball cypresses: root ball cypress plants are available from around October to April, during the dormant season of Chamaecyparis. These plants are usually more affordable and come with a robust root system. However, they require extra care after planting, particularly with watering, as root ball plants are more prone to drying out compared to pot-grown plants.Soil and preparation: the growth and health of a cypress hedge are closely linked to soil quality. Proper soil preparation is essential for successful establishment. Dig the soil deeply and ensure it is aerated and well-draining. Cypresses prefer humus-rich, fertile, and well-drained soil. When planting, add Heijnen planting soil or quality potting compost for an optimal start.Plant spacing: the number of cypress plants per metre depends on the size of the plants at purchase. For the Chamaecyparis sizes offered by Heijnen, 2 to 3 plants per linear metre are usually sufficient. The exact planting density is listed on each product page under plant characteristics.Important note: cypresses do not tolerate heavy, waterlogged clay soils without drainage. Standing water around the roots can cause root rot and suffocation. Always ensure sufficient drainage so excess water can drain away freely. For this reason, always follow our soil preparation guidelines.
Watering a cypress hedge
After planting: water generously immediately after planting to ensure roots make good contact with the soil and air pockets are eliminated. This helps the hedge establish more quickly and reduces the risk of losses.Initial establishment period: in the first few months after planting, regular watering is essential, especially during warm or dry periods. This prevents newly planted cypresses from drying out and helps them root properly. Once established, Cupressocyparis plants can largely provide for their own moisture needs, with watering only necessary during prolonged drought.Watering method: during dry or hot weather, it is better to water thoroughly once or twice a week rather than giving small amounts daily. This stimulates roots to grow deeper, making the hedge stronger and more resilient. The amount of water needed depends on plant size, soil structure, and weather conditions. Always check that the soil is moist down to 10–20 cm depth. If not, provide more water.Mature hedge: a well-established cypress hedge is reasonably drought-tolerant and usually requires no additional watering. Only in prolonged drought or extreme heat is supplementary watering advisable to prevent desiccation. Water preferably early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation. Using collected rainwater is recommended to save tap water.Note: cypresses do not tolerate persistently wet soil. Excess moisture can lead to root rot and suffocation. Always ensure the soil is well-draining and has adequate drainage capacity.
Pruning a cypress hedge
Frequency: to keep a cypress hedge neat, compact, and healthy, prune at least twice a year. For fast-growing hedges or very formal shapes, pruning three times per year may be required.Pruning times: the first pruning is ideally done in late May or early June, after the spring growth flush. A second cut is best performed in August or September. For strong growth, a light pruning in July may also help keep the hedge in shape.Technique: always use a sharp hedge trimmer for a clean finish. Never cut too far back into old wood, as cypresses do not regenerate well from bare branches. Regular and timely trimming of Cupressocyparis or Chamaecyparis hedges is crucial to prevent bare patches. Choose a cloudy day if possible to avoid leaf scorch.Shape: trim the hedge slightly tapered, broader at the base than at the top. This allows the lower branches to receive sufficient light, ensuring dense growth from top to bottom.Recovery: cypresses tolerate pruning well as long as old wood is avoided. Consistent annual pruning keeps the hedge dense and uniform. A well-maintained cypress hedge rarely needs severe cutting back.Note: birds often nest in cypress hedges. Be mindful of this and avoid pruning during the breeding season (generally March to July), or carefully check for nests beforehand. This way you contribute to a wildlife-friendly garden.
Fertilising a cypress hedge
At planting: give the hedge a strong start by applying Heijnen Starter Fertiliser or a comparable organic fertiliser. This supports root development and helps cypresses establish and grow more quickly.Spring (March/April): feed the hedge in early spring with a quality fertiliser such as Heijnen maintenance fertiliser. This provides the nutrients needed during the main growth period and prevents deficiencies during the season.Summer (June/July): a second application in summer is recommended to maintain vigour, foliage colour, and density. This is particularly important on lighter, sandy soils, where nutrients are more quickly depleted. Fertilising in summer also improves drought resistance and disease resilience.Compost: on sandy or poor soils, apply a layer of compost or garden soil around the hedge annually. This improves soil structure, increases moisture retention, and adds nutrients, keeping the hedge fuller and more vigorous.pH value: cypresses grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6–7). Excessive liming is unnecessary and may even hinder growth. Only if the soil is clearly too acidic (pH below 5.5) should a small amount of lime be applied.
The greatest ornamental value of a cypress hedge (Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis)
The cypress hedge (Chamaecyparis and Cupressocyparis) is among the most popular hedge plants thanks to its versatile ornamental value. It offers the perfect combination of functionality and beauty. The key ornamental features are:
Evergreen all year round: the cypress hedge retains its fresh colour throughout the year. Depending on the variety, this ranges from deep green to blue-green or even golden yellow. In this way, Chamaecyparis or Cupressocyparis bring colour and vibrancy to the garden even in winter.Sleek and dense form: cypresses grow compactly and branch densely when pruned two to three times per year. This makes them ideal hedges for privacy and shelter. With regular trimming, they form a neat, uniform line that fits beautifully into both modern and classical garden designs.Colourful varieties and attractive foliage texture: thanks to the diversity of species and cultivars, countless colour variations are possible. The fine, scale-like foliage gives the hedge a soft texture that contrasts elegantly with plants that have larger leaves. This makes cypresses excellent for combining with other garden plants.Height and growth rate: in particular, Cupressocyparis grows rapidly and can reach heights of 3 to 6 metres. As a result, the hedge not only forms the structural framework of the garden but also provides effective wind protection and reduces ambient noise.Topiary and elegant applications: thanks to their dense branching structure, cypresses are highly suitable for topiary. In addition to being used as hedges, they can also be pruned into cones, columns, or organic shapes, adding further ornamental value and elegance to the garden.
Popular and commonly used hedge varieties of Cupressocyparis and Chamaecyparis at Heijnen
At Heijnen, we offer several cypress varieties in our range that are highly suitable for creating hedges. Our hedge experts have listed the characteristic features of these cypress hedges below, so you can easily compare the differences between each variety:
Cupressocyparis leylandii hedge is the classic Leyland cypress and the fastest-growing cypress hedge in our range. With the right location and care, this hedge can grow 60–100 cm per year. In a short time, it forms a dense, dark green hedge with fine, flat scale-like needles and sturdy, wind-resistant branches. Perfectly suited for creating privacy along roads or property boundaries. The plant tolerates sea winds and air pollution but not waterlogged soil. Pruning twice a year (May/June and late August) keeps the hedge neat and tidy. It is evergreen, very hardy (down to approx. −20 °C), and can reach up to 20 metres in height without pruning.Cupressocyparis leylandii ‘2001’ hedge is a Leyland cypress variant with a more compact and upright growth habit and more finely branched shoots. As a result, the hedge remains narrower and requires less maintenance than the common Leylandii. Its growth rate is around 30–50 cm per year. The foliage remains a fresh dark green even in winter, without turning bronze. This variety is ideal for narrow property boundaries or modern, formal gardens. Two pruning sessions per year are sufficient. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and tolerates both wind and urban conditions, but not persistently wet ground.Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Columnaris Glauca’ hedge is a narrow, columnar Lawson cypress that stands out with its steel-blue to blue-green scales. With steady growth of 25–40 cm per year, the hedge naturally remains slim, making it ideal for tall but narrow boundaries with an elegant appearance. The foliage is softer and denser than that of Leylandii. Its most attractive colour is displayed in full sun, though it also tolerates light shade. It performs best in slightly acidic, well-drained soil and is sensitive to waterlogging. One or two prunings per year are sufficient.Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Ivonne’ hedge is distinguished by its striking golden-yellow foliage, which remains bright even in winter. With a straight, conical growth habit and moderate growth rate of 20–40 cm per year, it creates a hedge that contrasts beautifully with the blue-green ‘Columnaris Glauca’ and the dark green Leylandii. Its colour is most intense in full sun, while in partial shade it appears slightly greener. Thanks to its dense branching, it is very suitable for precise trimming. It thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soil, is very hardy, and remains compact with two pruning sessions per year.
The advantages and disadvantages of a Cupressocyparis and Chamaecyparis hedge
Cupressocyparis and Chamaecyparis are coniferous hedge plants that are often chosen for hedging and topiary in the garden. The hedge specialists at Heijnen have listed the advantages and disadvantages of cypress hedges for you:
Advantages of a cypress hedge
Evergreen: a cypress hedge is evergreen and retains its dense structure all year round. This means you can rely on privacy and colour in your garden in every season.Fast grower: cypresses grow on average between 40 and 100 centimetres per year, quickly reaching the desired height. Within just a few years, you can enjoy a fully opaque hedge that screens your garden.Excellent sound and wind barrier: thanks to their compact foliage and dense branching, cypress hedges work well as noise barriers against traffic or neighbouring sounds. They also provide strong protection against wind, making them practical for open or exposed gardens.Resistant to pests and diseases: cypresses are strong and healthy plants that suffer little from insects or fungal problems. With the right care, the hedge remains beautiful and vigorous for many years.Natural appearance: with their fine scale-like leaves and compact growth habit, cypress hedges have an elegant and classic look. They suit both modern and traditional garden designs.Long lifespan: with regular pruning and proper maintenance, a cypress hedge can last for decades. This makes it a durable and reliable long-term choice.Versatile use in the garden: suitable for both small and large gardens, cypresses can be trimmed into a formal shape or left slightly more natural. This makes them highly versatile for different garden styles and preferences.
Disadvantages of a cypress hedge
Requires frequent pruning: because cypress hedges grow so quickly, they need to be trimmed at least twice a year. Without pruning, the hedge will become too wide and lose its neat shape.Sensitive to pruning mistakes: if pruned back too deeply into old wood, cypresses often do not regrow. This can leave permanent bare patches that are difficult to repair. Timely pruning is therefore essential.Poor tolerance of wet soil: cypress hedges do not thrive in waterlogged or poorly drained soil. Prolonged wet conditions can cause root rot, seriously affecting the health and lifespan of the hedge.
Buy a cypress hedge at Heijnen
Ordering a cypress hedge is quick and easy online at Heijnen. Since 1976, the Heijnen family has been cultivating a wide range of hedge plants, including the popular Leylandii (Cupressocyparis leylandii). These fast-growing hedge plants are ideal for anyone looking to create privacy and shelter in the garden within a short time. Our cypresses are delivered directly from the nursery, ensuring strong, healthy plants of the highest quality at a competitive price. Each plant is carefully selected and grown with attention, so you can enjoy a dense, full, and beautiful hedge for many years to come.
Order your cypress hedge directly from Heijnen and benefit from:
Top-quality cypresses, delivered fresh from the nursery.
Fast and careful home delivery.
Personal advice from our experienced hedge specialists.
Alternative Hedge Plants for the Chamaecyparis
Would you prefer a different type of hedge than the Chamaecyparis? Then discover our popular and possible alternatives here: