Cypress family members are versatile and can be used as an ornamental clipped hedge, privacy screen, or decorative topiary. These hard-working evergreens earn their keep in the garden and are extremely low-maintenance and easy to grow. The smallest dwarf types grow slowly, putting on 15 feet or less over the course of 10 years, while the straight species (wild-type), such as Italian Cypress and Monterey Cypress, often grow to 100 feet or more. The infamous Leyland Cypress grows quickly and requires a large space and heavy pruning to keep it under control. Some recently introduced cultivars of this tree grow more slowly and often have an attractive gold coloring that makes a permanent focal point in the garden.
Photo by K M, cropped, Flickr, copyright CC BY 2.0 DEED
Although some of the smaller cypress varieties appreciate some shade, the majority need full sun to maintain vigorous growth and vibrant foliage color. Choose a location that drains well even during the colder winter months. Once a cypress is fully established, it is drought tolerant and rarely requires supplemental watering. Some of the fastest-growing cypresses (e.g. Leyland Cypress) are fully hardy down to USDA zone 4, while the majority of the dwarf and mini varieties only tolerate winters in zone 7 and above. Fertilize these trees and shrubs with a layer of organic compost early in the spring.
Shrubs To Plant With Cypress
Cypress are at their best in combination with other conifers or broadleaved evergreen shrubs. Some of the most interesting partners include various forms of yew, juniper, and holly, and natal plum. Pair cypresses with traditional Mediterranean plants like olive tree, breath of heaven, rosemary, lavender, and sumac in a hot dry garden with mild winters. Pay attention to the mature proportions of all the plants and aim to combine plants with differing shapes and sizes.
Perennials To Plant With Cypress
Plant medium-sized cypresses with perennials that have a strong, contrasting form. Italian cypress’ columnar shape looks nice against Star Jasmine pruned as a shrub or left to twine through a trellis. For hot, dry locations, plant a cypress shrub with New Zealand flax, agave, senecio, globe thistle, and euphorbia. These architectural plants give a relaxed, Mediterranean feel and are easy to maintain.
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Annuals To Plant With Cypress
Small cypress shrubs grow well in rock gardens and sunny garden borders alongside heat-loving annuals. Some low-maintenance pairings to consider include moss rose, lantana, verbena, and sweet potato vine. Use the annuals as a ground cover or specimen plant; they often bloom all season until the first frost. The solid evergreen color of the cypress makes a great backdrop, allowing a gardener to change their design every year if desired.
Best Companion Plants For Cypress in Containers
Dwarf cypresses grow well in planters and containers with other bedding plants. A good place to start is with easy annuals surrounding a central cypress thriller. Plant a mix of colorful pansies and primroses late in the winter just as the weather starts to change for spring. As the summer begins, replace the fading annuals with sweet potato vine, calibrachoa, zonal geraniums, or verbena to extend color well into the fall. Late in the summer, pot the dwarf cypress with a fall arrangement of ornamental chili peppers, kale, and cabbages, which will look fresh and festive until the first hard freeze of the season.
Photo by K M, unmodified, Flickr, copyright CC BY 2.0 DEED
Plants Not To Grow With Cypress
When designing an outdoor space with cypresses, consider the final height of the plants. A tall Italian cypress planted next to a one-story house may feel out of proportion with the surroundings. Likewise, growing only ground covers with tall cypresses can look unbalanced and may require a middle layer to even out the composition.
Best Plants To Grow With Cypress
Choose companions for cypress that thrive in the same growing conditions. Perennials and shrubs that grow well in full sun and well-draining soil, including most Mediterranean plants and hardy annuals, make outstanding companions. Cypress looks particularly attractive among other conifers of different shapes and sizes. In a hot, dry garden, include succulents with long seasonal interest.
Sources: “Evergreens and Companion Planting.”American Conifer society. conifersociety.org