Murray Cypress – Identification

Q: I have seen online ads that claim Murray cypress is a type of Leyland cypress that is hardier and faster growing. Is this true?

A:  There has been a great deal of discussion regarding the origin of “Murray cypress”, which is also known as Cupressus ovensii.. There are three descriptions of its parentage:

1. Murray cypress is a hybrid of Cupressus lusitanica (Mexican cypress) and Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey cypress). See this discussion

2. Cupressus ovensii is a cross between C. arizonica (Arizona cypress) and C. nootkatensis  (Alaska cypress)  See this discussion

3. Cupressus × ovensii is a hybrid of C. nootkatensis (Alaska cypress) and C. lusitanica  (Mexican cypress) See Conifer Society

I think #3. is most likely to be correct.

NOTE : Cuprocyparis leylandii (Leyland cypress) is a hybrid between Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey cypress) and Cupressus nootkatensis (Alaska cypress).

That said, Murray cypress is reputed to be faster growing and more tolerant of Georgia weather than Leyland cypress.

I have not seen one growing here, so I can’t really say if the claims are correct.

Leylands in a row