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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Italian Pencil Pine is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Italian Pencil Pine in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
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 a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Italian Pencil Pine with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and Mediterranean climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.