x Cuprocyparis leylandii 'Pyramidalis'

Common name: Golden Leyland Cypress

Description: This golden-foliaged cultivar brings year-round colour to the garden with its bright golden-yellow evergreen foliage that becomes more intense in full sun. The feathery, dense growth habit creates excellent screening whilst adding a luminous quality that brightens boundaries and dark corners. Unlike green Leyland Cypress, 'Excalibur Gold' has a slightly slower, more manageable growth rate whilst still providing effective privacy relatively quickly. The golden colour is particularly vibrant in winter and spring, providing cheerful colour during the darker months. This cultivar responds well to regular trimming and can be maintained as a formal hedge or left to develop as a specimen tree.

Other benefits: evergreen golden foliage, year-round colour interest, fast screening, slightly slower growth than species, wind tolerant

Wildlife attraction: nesting birds, shelter for wildlife

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4m x 2m

Position: full sun for best golden colour; tolerates partial shade but foliage will be greener

Soil pH: highly adaptable; thrives in acidic, neutral, or alkaline soils

Moisture: moderate watering during establishment; drought tolerant once established; prefers well-drained soil

Winter hardiness: fully hardy to -20°C and below