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The Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens 'Stricta'), often called the Pencil Pine or Graveyard Cypress, is the ultimate architectural "exclamation mark" for South African gardens. It offers a much narrower, more formal silhouette than the Leylandii or Syzygium species.
Cupressus Sempervirens Stricta
Cupressus Sempervirens Stricta
1. Performance in the Cape Regions
Eastern Cape: This tree is perfectly suited to the Mediterranean climate. It thrives in hot, dry summers and is highly water-smart once established. It is wind-tolerant, making it a reliable choice for coastal gardens in this region.
Sun Requirement: It must have full sun to maintain its tight, columnar form; in shade, it will become sparse and lose its "pencil" shape.
2. Why It’s a Top Pick for Design
Extreme Space Saver: Reaching up to 10m in height but only 1m to 1.5m in width, it provides vertical scale without stealing horizontal garden space.
Architectural Contrast: The dark, dense green foliage provides a sleek, sculptural appearance that complements modern homes and bright white walls.
Non-Invasive Deep Roots: Its roots tend to go deep rather than wide, making it safe to plant relatively close to paving, driveways, or house foundations (at least 50cm distance is recommended).
3. The "Caution" Corner
Growth Rate: It is often described as having a medium to fast growth rate (roughly 40cm–60cm per year), though it is slower than a standard Leylandii. For immediate impact, it is best to buy taller specimens.
Maintenance: While low-maintenance, loose side branches can occasionally "flop" out. These can be tucked back in by twining fishing line around the tree or through light pruning.
Privacy Screening: Because it is so narrow, you need to plant them roughly 1m apart to create a solid screen.
Where to use it in your design?
In our layering post, this is your "Vertical Accent."
The Entrance: Use a pair to frame a doorway or gate for a timeless Mediterranean feel.
The Focal Line: Plant them in a row along a narrow driveway or boundary where you need height but don't have room for a wide hedge.
Background Layering: Use it as a dark, vertical backdrop for the silvery leaves of Lavender or the soft, drooping foliage of Henkel’s Yellowwood.
Visit us at the shop in Walmer, Port Elizabeth, or contact us on Whatsapp 072 867 3243.
Our Italian Cypress Trees are currently available from R205 each.
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