PomPom Boulevard Cypress

‘Boulevard Cypress’

A twist here…a turn there, that’s the unique growth of Boulevard Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Boulevard’). It is a popular medium-sized evergreen shrub for home and commercial landscapes (USDA hardiness zones 5-9).  Boulevard cypress exhibits a twisted pyramidal form with soft, silvery blue foliage that also grows in a slightly twisted manner. The fine, texture feathery needles take on a slight purplish tint during the cold winter months.

Boulevard cypress grows to mature heights of 8 to 12 feet and 4 to 6 feet wide. Its annual growth rate averages 6 to 10 inches. It thrives in full sun to light partial shade. In warm Southern climes it enjoys a break from extreme hot midday summer sun. Boulevard cypress should be planted in moist, compost-rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Mulching newly planted shrubs is highly recommended. Fertilize with granular 10-10-10 or an equivalent product in late winter – early spring.

Boulevard cypress is relatively free of serious problems although Phomopsis needle blight and root rot problems may occur when poorly sited. Older mature specimens often show up interior needle browning, which is blown away with a leaf blower if the buildup becomes excessive or unsightly. Seed and fruit formation are unimportant.

Utilize Boulevard as a specimen shrub, or 5-12 foot high clipped hedge or privacy screen. Garden centers may sell pompom  forms. Plants should be spaced minimum of 6-8 feet apart to avoid overcrowding and eventual decline due to disease and pest problems. During the summer, inspect all off-colored evergreens for a buildup of mites; hose them down with water weekly.