cupressus thuja

Comparing Cupressus and Thuja

Cupressus, including popular varieties like Cupressus lusitanica and Cupressus sempervirens, are renowned for their upright form, aromatic foliage, and tolerance to coastal conditions, making them ideal for hedging and shelterbelts. On the other hand, Thuja species, such as Thuja occidentalis and Thuja plicata, offer lush, scale-like leaves and a range of golden, green, and bronze tones throughout the year. Both groups perform well in a range of New Zealand’s climates, requiring minimal maintenance once established.

If you’re drawn to ground-hugging varieties, Cupressus Greenstead Magnificent offers a low-growing, feathery blue foliage perfect for covering banks or cascading over walls. For gardeners wanting a splash of colour, Thuja occidentalis 'Rheingold' provides brilliant golden tones in spring and summer, complemented by a neat, conical shape that suits borders and containers alike.

Uses for Cupressus and Thuja in New Zealand Gardens

Cupressus thuja species are often chosen for their low-maintenance nature and adaptable landscaping potential. Cupressus varieties are excellent for creating tall privacy screens and shelterbelts, while thujas are perfect as formal hedges, windbreaks, and fillers among mixed shrub plantings. Their aromatic foliage also makes them resistant to browsing by most livestock and common garden pests.

For contemporary gardens, try integrating the silvery blue foliage of Cupressus Blue Ice (Blue Arizona Cypress) for a striking contrast to traditional green hedges. If you prefer a warmer palette, Thuja plicata Old Gold (Thuja Old Gold) showcases soft gold and green tones that brighten foundation plantings and large garden beds.

Drought Tolerance and Coastal Hardiness

A major advantage of planting cupressus thuja types is their resilience. Both genera are highly drought-tolerant once established and withstand New Zealand’s drying winds exceptionally well. They grow happily in a range of soils, provided there’s good drainage, and both are excellent choices for coastal gardens where salt-laden winds challenge many other trees.

Among standout shelter tree options is Cupressus lusitanica Mangamahoe, loved for its vigorous growth and dense, conical habit that forms an effective wind barrier or screen.

Choosing the Right Cupressus or Thuja

When choosing your perfect evergreen, consider the space available, desired mature height, and foliage colour. Both cupressus and thuja selections have a place in the well-planned New Zealand garden, offering shelter, privacy, and year-round beauty. Browse our range to discover the finest Cupressus Greenstead Magnificent, resilient Cupressus Blue Ice (Blue Arizona Cypress), and eye-catching Thuja plicata Old Gold (Thuja Old Gold) for your landscape transformation.