Leylandii Hedge

A leylandii hedge is a very common sight in UK gardens but it should not be planted lightly. If it is pruned religously every year then it will become a monster! It is grown primarily because it will grow to give privacy very quickly. On the downside nothing will grow beneath it.

Common Name:	Leylandii (Leyland Cypress)
Botanical Name:	Cupressocyparis leylandii
Description:	A very fast growing conifer which is very widely used as a hedging plant. It is very dense and can be kept small if regularly clipped. It is a rich green colour and can be very attractive if kept under control. It does however sap nutrients from the surrounding soil.
Native Hedge?	No
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	Yes
Ideal Height:	High (2-4m) but will grow to exceed 6m if left.
Average growth p.a.	Very fast (up to 90cm p.a.)
Suitable conditions	Coastal areas Sun or partial shade
Unsuitable conditions	Heavy or wet soil Full Shade Exposed or windy areas
Responds to renovation?	No
Planting Distance	75cm for 1.8m hedge or if higher hedge requierd 1/3 proposed heigh
Maintenance:	High - clip 2/3 times in growing season

Common Name:	Golden Leylandii (Leyland Cypress)
Botanical Name:	Cupressocyparis leylandii "Castlewellan"
Description:	A very fast growing conifer which is very widely used as a hedging plant although it is not quite as vigorous as the green variety. It is very dense and can be kept small if regularly clipped. It is a rich golden green colour and can be very attractive if kept under control. It does however sap nutrients from the surrounding soil.
Native Hedge?	No
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	Yes
Ideal Height:	High (2-4m) but will grow to exceed 6m if left.
Average growth p.a.	Very fast (up to 75cm p.a.)
Suitable conditions	Coastal areas Full sun or partial shade
Unsuitable conditions	Heavy or wet soil Dense shade Exposed or windy areas
Responds to renovation?	No
Planting Distance	75cm
Maintenance:	High - clip 2/3 times in growing season