cypress tree nz

The Cupressus Genus: Iconic Evergreens for Kiwi Gardens

The diverse Cupressus genus encompasses a variety of cypress trees beloved throughout NZ. Whether you desire slender, pencil-like trees for formal avenues or broad, bushy hedges for wind shelter, there’s a Cupressus to suit your needs. Their aromatic foliage, attractive cones, and unique colours—from deep greens to striking silvery blues—create year-round interest and structure.

• Fast Growing & Hardy: Cupressus are known for quick establishment and strong growth, adapting well to New Zealand’s moderate coastal climates as well as colder inland regions.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, these trees require minimal pruning and are generally pest and disease resistant.
• Versatile Uses: Ideal as windbreaks, privacy fences, topiary, feature trees, and even for timber production.

Popular Cypress Varieties in NZ

Selecting the right cypress tree NZ depends on your site conditions, design vision, and planting goals. Here are some of our most popular Cupressus varieties:

• Cupressus Gracilis: Sought after for its slender, upright habit, perfect for formal hedges or as an architectural specimen.
• Cupressus sempervirens Stricta (Pencil Cypress): This iconic, columnar variety is reminiscent of Mediterranean landscapes—excellent for lining driveways and pathways.
• Cupressus Ovensii: A robust choice for shelter belts, offering dense foliage and good wind resistance.
• Cupressus sempervirens: Known for classic beauty and adaptability, suitable for both formal and informal plantings.
• Cupressus Blue Ice: Prized for its blue-silver foliage, this cultivar adds a striking contrast to mixed conifer or native plantings.

Planting & Caring for Cypress Trees in New Zealand

Cypress trees thrive best in well-drained soils and sunny positions. They tolerate coastal winds, dry summers, and frosty conditions, making them suitable for gardens across NZ. Water young trees regularly during their first season, mulch to retain moisture, and prune as needed to shape hedges or maintain a tidy appearance.

Spacing is key for healthy growth—hedges can be planted 1 to 1.5 metres apart. Taller varieties like Cupressus sempervirens and Cupressus Gracilis benefit from occasional formative pruning but generally require little ongoing maintenance.

For a show-stopping focal point or a practical, attractive shelter solution, the cypress tree NZ is hard to surpass. Explore our full range of Cupressus species to find the best fit for your next landscape project. With their enduring appeal and reliable performance, cypress trees remain a top choice for New Zealand gardens.