A strikingly narrow, columnar cypress with blue-green foliage, the classic exclamation point of Mediterranean and formal gardens. Drought-hardy once established and ideal for tall vertical accents or avenue plantings.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 8 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Italian Pencil Pine
Botanically, Cupressus sempervirens 'Glauca' is a moderate-growing tree in the Cupressaceae family. It reaches around 8 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage.
Where to grow Italian Pencil Pine
Italian Pencil Pine suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Italian Pencil Pine does best in free-draining and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Italian Pencil Pine performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Italian Pencil Pine in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Italian Pencil Pine in the garden
Italian Pencil Pine earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, a windbreak and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Italian Pencil Pine with species that also favour happy on low water and Mediterranean climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Italian Pencil Pine
Plant Sale lists Italian Pencil Pine as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
