Cupressus 'Leighton Green' is a cultivar of the Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), a species of coniferous tree native to the Central Coast of California. 'Leighton Green' is a popular cultivar known for its tall, columnar growth habit and dense foliage.
The 'Leighton Green' cultivar was developed in Australia by plant breeder Leighton Green in the late 1940s. It was selected for its improved growth characteristics and adaptability to a wide range of climates. The tree has a narrow, pyramidal shape, reaching heights of 15 to 20 meters (50 to 65 feet) with a spread of 3 to 5 meters (10 to 16 feet) at maturity.
The foliage of 'Leighton Green' is a vibrant green color and consists of scale-like leaves that overlap tightly, creating a dense screen. The foliage retains its color well throughout the year, even in colder climates. This makes 'Leighton Green' a popular choice for privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, and as a specimen tree.
One of the advantages of 'Leighton Green' is its tolerance to a variety of soil conditions, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is also fairly drought-tolerant once established and can withstand salt spray, making it suitable for coastal areas. However, it thrives best in full sun exposure.