Cupressus sempervirens var. stricta – Italian Cypress, Mediterranean Cypress, Candle Cypress, Pyramidal Cypress

Description

Cupressus sempervirens var. stricta is the classic narrow, columnar form of the Mediterranean cypress, renowned for its tall, slender silhouette that rises like a vertical accent in the landscape. Native to the eastern Mediterranean, this evergreen conifer features dense, scale-like deep green foliage tightly held to upright branches, forming an elegant, architectural column. Mature trees typically reach 10 to 20 meters in height while retaining a remarkably narrow spread, often under 2 meters.

Extremely drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, showing excellent heat, wind, and poor-soil resilience. Its strong vertical habit makes it ideal for formal gardens, alleys, framing entrances, or adding dramatic structure to Mediterranean, xeric, or modern designs. Small, rounded cones appear seasonally, and the foliage emits a pleasant resinous aroma in warm weather.