The most popular way to style a False Cypress is definitely the classic pillar shape. While this look has some major perks, it’s certainly not your only option! There are plenty of other ways to shape these evergreens—let’s dive into a few of my favorite pruning styles.
The Pillar Shape: A Fan Favorite for a Reason
There’s a good reason why the pillar or cone shape is the go-to for False Cypress. When you prune it this way, you want the tree to taper slightly toward the top. The big advantage here? It ensures those lower branches get plenty of sunlight. By keeping the top a bit narrower, you prevent the bottom from thinning out or getting “bald” due to lack of light.
Other Popular Ways to Shape Your Cypress
Beyond the classic cone, you can get pretty creative with your False Cypress. Honestly, the sky’s the limit, but if you’re looking for inspiration, these three styles are always a hit:
- The Globe (or Ball)
- The Formal Straight Hedge
- The Bonsai
The Globe Shape
If you have a smaller False Cypress variety, shaping it into a round globe looks fantastic. To make your life easier, start with a variety that already has a naturally rounded growth habit. Pro tip: You can actually buy wire templates or stencils at your local garden center to help you keep that sphere perfectly symmetrical while you trim.
The Perfectly Straight Hedge
A False Cypress hedge is a showstopper, but it does require a bit of a “maintenance-heavy” relationship—especially if you want those crisp, straight lines. Even a few stray shoots can make it look messy, so you’ll want to stay on top of trimming. To get that laser-straight finish, I recommend using a string line or even a spirit level as a guide while you work.
The Bonsai Look
Turning your tree into a Bonsai is an art form that requires regular attention to keep its miniature charm. You’ll typically use wire to train the branches into the shape you want, then prune back any side shoots that break the silhouette. Don’t forget that root pruning is also key here—it helps control the growth and keeps the tree healthy in its compact form.
Consistency is Key
Whether you’re going for a funky topiary or a formal hedge, the secret is “little and often.” Regular, light maintenance trims are much better than one massive hack-back. Just snip off those stray tips and side shoots as they appear, and your False Cypress will stay looking sharp and well-groomed all year round!
