When choosing between Leyland Cypress vs Emerald Green Arborvitae for your privacy screen, the height difference alone is striking. While the Emerald Green Arborvitae typically reaches a modest 10-15 feet at maturity, the towering Leyland Cypress can soar to impressive heights of 40-60 feet. I've seen firsthand how crucial this decision becomes, especially after events like strong hurricanes that can transform a private yard into an exposed space overnight.
The debate between cypress vs arborvitae extends beyond just height considerations. For those seeking faster results, the Leyland Cypress offers remarkable growth rates of up to two feet per year, though both trees can grow between 3-5 feet annually once established. Additionally, climate tolerance creates another significant distinction—the Emerald Green Arborvitae demonstrates exceptional cold hardiness down to Zone 2, whereas Leyland Cypress thrives in warmer conditions and is only cold-hardy to Zone 6. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll explore everything you need to know about these popular privacy options to help you make the perfect choice for your landscape needs.
Size, Shape, and Growth Rate
The physical dimensions of these evergreens create starkly different landscape profiles. Let's examine how these popular privacy trees compare in terms of their size, shape, and how quickly they establish themselves in your yard.
Mature Height: 12-20 ft vs 60-70 ft
The size difference between these two privacy options is dramatic. Emerald Green Arborvitae maintains a modest mature height of 12-20 feet, making it ideal for smaller yards and spaces with height restrictions. In contrast, Leyland Cypress towers over its counterpart, reaching impressive heights of 60-70 feet at maturity. This remarkable height difference means the Leyland Cypress creates a much more commanding presence, perfect for larger properties needing substantial screening.
Green Giant Arborvitae, a larger arborvitae variety, splits the difference somewhat by reaching 20-50 feet tall, still considerably shorter than Leyland Cypress.
Width Spread: 3-4 ft vs 15-25 ft
The contrast in width is equally significant. Emerald Green Arborvitae maintains a slim profile at only 3-4 feet wide, creating a tight, columnar shape that works well in narrow spaces. Leyland Cypress, however, spreads considerably wider at 15-25 feet, requiring much more horizontal space.
This substantial difference in width affects both planting density and placement. For instance, Emerald Green Arborvitae can be planted just 3-4 feet apart for a solid privacy screen, whereas Leyland Cypress needs 5-6 feet of spacing between trees.
Annual Growth Rate: 1 ft vs 2-4 ft per year
Regarding growth speed, Leyland Cypress outpaces most arborvitae varieties. It grows exceptionally fast at 2-4 feet per year under ideal conditions, sometimes showing up to 12 inches of new growth by early spring. Furthermore, Leyland Cypress maintains steady growth from early spring through mid-fall.
Conversely, Emerald Green Arborvitae grows more slowly at about 1 foot or less annually. The Green Giant Arborvitae variety grows faster at 2-3 feet per year, but still typically slower than Leyland Cypress. Notably, arborvitae shows less early spring growth but compensates with more vigorous growth in late spring and early fall.
This difference in growth timing and rate significantly impacts how quickly you'll achieve your desired privacy screen effect.
Climate and Hardiness Zones
Climate adaptability often determines the success of your privacy screen investment. Each of these evergreens has evolved distinct tolerances that make them suitable for different regions across the United States.
Cold Tolerance: Zone 2-8 vs Zone 6-10
The regional suitability of these privacy trees reveals a fundamental difference in their genetic makeup. Arborvitae demonstrates remarkable cold hardiness, thriving in zones 2 through 8, making it an excellent choice for properties in the northern United States. In fact, it can withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, surviving harsh winters that would devastate other evergreens.
Leyland Cypress, meanwhile, prefers more moderate climates, flourishing in zones 6 through 10. Its cold tolerance extends only to about -10 degrees Fahrenheit, essentially limiting its viability to the southern and coastal regions. This 10-degree difference in cold tolerance proves decisive for northern homeowners considering their options.
Heat and Drought Resistance
Beyond cold tolerance, these trees respond differently to heat and drought conditions. Leyland Cypress demonstrates superior heat tolerance, thriving in the southernmost parts of California, Texas, and Florida. Its remarkable adaptability to poor soil conditions, including sandy soils and those with high salinity levels, makes it particularly valuable for coastal properties.
Arborvitae varieties generally prefer more moderate temperatures and consistent moisture. Although they can handle drought once established, they typically don't match the Leyland's resilience in extended hot, dry periods. During extremely high winds (65+ MPH) in hot weather sustained over several hours, both tree types require additional watering to prevent drying out.
Hurricane and Wind Resistance: Shallow Roots vs Dense Form
Structural stability during storms presents another critical consideration. Leyland Cypress often develops a problematic mismatch - its rapid above-ground growth frequently outpaces root development, resulting in a tall tree with relatively shallow roots. Under windy conditions, this imbalance increases the risk of toppling.
Arborvitae, with its more modest height and dense form, generally offers better stability during high winds. Both types feature lightweight, pliable branches that bend rather than break during storms. Instead of snapping under pressure from wind, rain or snow, these flexible branches simply bend until the weight falls off.
Neither tree causes significant structural damage if they do fall, as they're relatively lightweight for their size.
Care and Maintenance Needs
Successful establishment of privacy screens depends primarily on proper maintenance. Both trees have distinct care requirements that affect long-term health.
Watering Schedule: Weekly vs Biweekly
Newly planted arborvitae requires deep soaking every other day when temperatures exceed 70°F. Subsequently, water every 2-3 days in the second year, transitioning to every 3-4 days in the third year. Established arborvitae needs about ½-1 inch of water weekly.
Leyland cypress demands multiple waterings weekly during establishment. Once mature, it generally thrives with biweekly watering, except during drought conditions. Importantly, both trees prefer slow, deep soaking rather than frequent light watering.
Pruning Requirements: Low vs Moderate
Arborvitae typically maintains its shape naturally with minimal intervention. Leyland cypress, given its vigorous growth rate, requires more frequent pruning—ideally in early spring before growth spurts begin. The best pruning window extends from April through August, with up to three pruning sessions annually.
Soil Preferences: Well-drained vs Adaptable
Both trees demand well-draining soil. Arborvitae prefers consistently moist, slightly acidic to alkaline soil (pH 6-8). Leyland cypress demonstrates greater adaptability, thriving in clay, loam, and sand with pH ranging from 5.0-8.0.
Sunlight Needs: Partial Shade vs Full Sun
Arborvitae tolerates partial shade but develops denser foliage with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Leyland cypress absolutely requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Before you decide, browse our selection of privacy trees to find your perfect match.
Pests, Diseases, and Durability
Long-term health and appearance of privacy screens depend heavily on their resilience against biological threats. Both trees face distinct challenges that affect their durability.
Common Pests: Bagworms and Spider Mites
Bagworms pose a serious threat to both species, capable of stripping branches bare within weeks. These caterpillars construct distinctive bags from silk and plant material, with each bag potentially containing 500-1,000 eggs. Despite their presence on both trees, Leyland cypress typically suffers more severe infestations.
Spider mites cause yellowing and speckling on needles, particularly during cool weather. Unlike most mites that thrive in hot conditions, spruce spider mites peak during spring and fall.
Disease Resistance: Canker and Root Rot Risks
Arborvitae demonstrates superior disease resistance compared to Leyland cypress. The latter has become increasingly susceptible to canker diseases and root rot as its popularity has grown. Seiridium canker and Botryosphaeria canker frequently devastate Leyland cypress, especially during drought stress.
Phytophthora root rot affects both trees in poorly drained soils, destroying roots and causing foliage to yellow and die.
Winter Browning and Leaf Drop
Both evergreens can experience winter desiccation when water loss exceeds uptake through frozen soil. Arborvitae sometimes develops temporary browning during harsh winters, yet typically recovers by spring.
Lifespan and Long-Term Health
The durability gap between these privacy options has widened. Arborvitae offers greater longevity due to its disease resistance. Conversely, Leyland cypress, once praised for hardiness, now faces mounting health challenges that can significantly shorten its lifespan.
Conclusion
Choosing between Leyland Cypress and Emerald Green Arborvitae ultimately depends on your specific landscape needs and regional climate. The towering 60-70 foot Leyland Cypress certainly creates a dramatic statement and grows rapidly at 2-4 feet yearly, making it ideal for large properties requiring quick privacy solutions. Arborvitae, at a modest 12-20 feet with slower growth, works better for smaller yards or areas with space limitations.
Climate considerations should factor heavily into your decision. Arborvitae thrives in northern regions with its impressive cold hardiness down to Zone 2, while Leyland Cypress performs best in southern and coastal areas with its Zone 6-10 adaptability. Your long-term maintenance commitment matters too—Leyland demands more frequent pruning and faces greater susceptibility to pests and diseases, whereas Arborvitae generally requires less intervention and demonstrates superior disease resistance.
Both options have their strengths and limitations. Leyland Cypress offers unmatched height and rapid growth but comes with higher maintenance needs and potential structural weakness during storms. Arborvitae provides excellent cold tolerance and better disease resistance at the cost of slower establishment and more modest dimensions.
Before finalizing your choice, take time to browse our selection of privacy trees to explore varieties that might perfectly match your specific conditions. The right decision now will reward you with years of privacy, beauty, and satisfaction as your living screen matures and thrives in your landscape.
FAQs
Q1. Which is better for creating a privacy screen: Leyland Cypress or Emerald Green Arborvitae? The choice depends on your specific needs. Leyland Cypress grows faster and taller, ideal for large properties needing quick privacy. Arborvitae is better for smaller yards and colder climates, with lower maintenance requirements.
Q2. What are the main differences in size between Leyland Cypress and Emerald Green Arborvitae? Leyland Cypress can reach heights of 60-70 feet with a width of 15-25 feet, while Arborvitae typically grows to 12-20 feet tall with a width of 3-4 feet. Leyland Cypress also grows faster at 2-4 feet per year compared to Arborvitae's 1 foot annually.
Q3. How do Leyland Cypress and Emerald Green Arborvitae differ in climate tolerance? Arborvitae is more cold-hardy, thriving in zones 2-8 and tolerating temperatures down to -20°F. Leyland Cypress prefers warmer climates, suitable for zones 6-10 and tolerating temperatures only down to -10°F.
Q4. What are the maintenance requirements for these privacy trees? Leyland Cypress requires more frequent pruning and is more susceptible to pests and diseases. Arborvitae generally needs less maintenance and has better disease resistance. Both trees need regular watering, especially during establishment.
Q5. How long do Leyland Cypress and Emerald Green Arborvitae typically live? Arborvitae generally offers greater longevity due to its superior disease resistance. Leyland Cypress, while once known for its hardiness, now faces increasing health challenges that can significantly shorten its lifespan.