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persian cypress tree

The elegant Persian cypress tree is a superb choice for gardeners seeking structure, evergreen foliage, and a sense of grandeur in their landscapes. Renowned for its tall, slender form and exquisite green needles, the Persian cypress tree (Cupressus sempervirens) thrives in New Zealand’s varied climates and brings timeless beauty to private gardens, urban spaces, and formal avenues. Whether you’re hunting for a classic hedge, a stately specimen, or a drought-tolerant evergreen, the Persian cypress tree combines aesthetic appeal with practical versatility.

taxodium-distichum-

Taxodium distichum (Bald Cypress)

Taxodium distichum, commonly known as the Bald Cypress or Swamp Cypress, is a conifer that grows as an upright tree to about 30 m tall and 8 m wide. It is somewhat unusual in that it is deciduous whereas most conifers tend to be evergreen. Feathery leaves emerge light green in spring, age to become bronze-yellow in summer, then develop bronze tones in autumn before falling. Taxodium distichum is a great tree for planting in wetter areas of a large garden and for planting around water features.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Conifers
Height: 30.00 m
Spread: 8.00 m
Tolerances: Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Ponds
Garden styles: Riparian
Strobilanthes gossypinus up close with grey leaves.

Strobilanthes gossypinus

Strobilanthes gossypinus, commonly known as the Persian Shield, is an evergreen shrub grown for its lush foliage. It features grey-green leaves that are covered with fine hairs. These mid-sized, showy leaves are held densely off sturdy stems as it grows to 1 m tall and 1.5 m wide. Strobilanthes gossypinus is commonly included in a mixed planting, planted around outdoor living areas such as pools, maintained in a container, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants. Its foliage also makes it suitable for inclusion in a tropical garden, providing excellent texture.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock, Tropical
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Taxodium distichum Cascade Falls

Taxodium distichum Cascade Falls is a variety of the commonly known, Swamp Cypress, and is a fabulous weeping tree that will tolerate heavy soils...

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Cupressus 'Blue Ice' (Blue Arizona Cypress)

Cupressus 'Blue Ice' is a striking evergreen conifer admired for its vibrant icy blue foliage and strong upright growth habit. This hardy tree...

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Cupressus sempervirens 'Stricta' (Pencil Cypress)

Cupressus sempervirens 'Stricta' is a tall narrow evergreen conifer admired for its dense upright form and rich dark green foliage. This classic...

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A Parrotia persica 'Pendula' specimen tree with pendulous green foliage.
Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood)

Parrotia persica 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Persian Ironwood, is a tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours and weeping growth...

From$299.92
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach, commonly known as Bead Tree, White Cedar or Persian Lilac, is a fast-growing deciduous tree admired for its feathery foliage and...

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A Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood) specimen tree with colourful, orange foliage in autumn.
Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica, commonly known as the Persian Ironwood Tree, is a small tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours. The foliage emerges light...

From$205.02
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Cupressus ovensii

Cupressus ovensii (Ovens Cypress) is a hardy evergreen conifer admired for its fine textured foliage and dense upright growth habit. This resilient...

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Quercus robur 'Fastigiata' specimen trees.
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Quercus robur 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the English Columnar Oak or Cypress Oak, is a deciduous tree with lovely foliage and great form. This...

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'Bearss' Lime green fruit.
Lime Bearss

The 'Bearss' Lime, also known as Persian or Tahitian lime, is a vigorous, nearly thornless citrus tree that thrives in New Zealand’s warmer regions...

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Ulmus carpinifolia Variegata (Field Elm)

Ulmus carpinifolia Variegata, commonly known as Field Elm or Variegated Elm tree, is a stately, deciduous tree grown for its colourful foliage. The...

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Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

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Robinia Lace Lady

Robinia Lace Lady, commonly known as the False Acacia tree, is a deciduous tree grown for its lace-like foliage and pendulous form. The showy foliage...

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Cedrela sinensis Flamingo (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis Flamingo is a highly colourful, deciduous tree featuring bright, salmon-pink foliage in spring which ages to cream-yellow, and then...

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Fraxinus excelsior

Fraxinus excelsior, commonly known as the European Ash or Common Ash, is a large and stately, deciduous tree grown for its rich and colourful...

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Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

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Ulmus Lobel (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus Lobel is a variety of Dutch Elm tree grown for its colourful foliage and narrow form. The leaves emerge a fresh green colour in spring, age to...

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Magnolia JC Williams (Magnolia Tree JC Williams)

Magnolia JC Williams bears masses of large and showy, rose-purple flowers through late winter and early spring. These are borne on the naked stems...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

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Schinus molle (California Pepper Tree)

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Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

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Magnolia Amethyst Flame (Amethyst Flame Magnolia Tree)

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Acer platanoides Princeton Gold (Princeton Gold Maple Tree)

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Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra)

Magnolia liliiflora Nigra, commonly known as Black Lily, is a stunning tree that bears masses of large and showy, purple flowers from late winter...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

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Magnolia Margaret Helen (Magnolia Tree Margaret Helen)

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Jute Tree Tie

The Jute Tree Tie is non-abrasive and very popular because it wont cause tree damage. The 50 mm wide fabric is heavy duty and designed to support...

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Taxodium distichum (Bald Cypress)

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Cedrela, Cupressus, Dacrydium, Fraxinus, Lime, Liriodendron, Magnolia, Melia, Metrosideros, Parrotia, Pear, Quercus, Robinia, Schefflera, Schinus, Sorbus, Strobilanthes, Tabebuia Taxodium and Ulmus, or related Categories - Tree ties, General Garden Fertiliser, Lime Trees, Conifer Shrubs, Conifer Trees, Deciduous Conifers, Pear Trees, Indoor Plants, Deciduous Shrubs, Evergreen Shrubs, Deciduous Trees, Evergreen Trees Magnolia Trees and Maple Tree.

Search persian cypress tree

The Botanical Beauty of the Persian Cypress Tree

The Persian cypress tree stands out with its columnar silhouette, often reaching heights of 12–20 metres once fully established. Its upright branches create a natural architectural element, perfect for framing garden entrances, lining pathways, or punctuating mixed borders. This Mediterranean native not only provides year-round foliage but also hosts a subtle fragrance and soft, lush needles. Its resilience to wind, heat, and poor soils makes it an ideal companion for New Zealand’s ever-changing garden conditions.

Planting and Growing Conditions

Persian cypress trees prefer full sun and thrive in well-draining soils. Once established, they tolerate dry periods, making them excellent for low-maintenance gardens. Planting several in a row creates an instant privacy screen or windbreak, while a single specimen can anchor a garden design. Regular watering helps young trees settle, but mature Persian cypress trees require little hands-on care. For gardeners interested in adding more conifers to their landscapes, consider pairing these with Taxodium distichum (Bald Cypress) for diverse texture and visual interest.

Uses in the Landscape

The Persian cypress tree’s striking shape fits formal plantings, Mediterranean-inspired gardens, and contemporary outdoor spaces. Its ability to maintain a tight profile means it’s ideal for hedges or accent points. If you’re searching for graceful, weeping forms, explore Taxodium distichum Cascade Falls or add character with the distinctive Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood), both offering contrast and unique silhouette alongside Persian cypress.

Related Cypress Species

For gardeners enchanted by the Persian cypress tree but seeking different features or water-loving trees, New Zealand nurseries offer other cypress varieties. For instance, Taxodium mucronatum (Montezuma Cypress) and Taxodium Mexicanum (Mexican Swamp Cypress) are perfect for wetter sites or pond edges, thanks to their tolerance for heavy soils and moisture.

Why Choose Persian Cypress for Your Garden?

The Persian cypress tree is more than a garden plant—it’s a legacy. Its rapid growth, adaptability, and stately appearance make it a favourite among landscape designers and home gardeners alike. With minimal care and maximum impact, the Persian cypress tree transforms spaces with elegance and enduring charm. Whether you’re planning a formal avenue, a privacy screen, or a focal point, this classic conifer brings lasting beauty and resilience to every Kiwi garden.


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–The Plant Company

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