Cupressus Sempervirens 'Swane's Golden'

• Native to Mediterranean climates, making it well-suited to Australian conditions with excellent drought and heat tolerance once established.
• Features distinctive golden-yellow foliage that intensifies in cooler weather, providing year-round colour interest in the landscape.
• Grows in a naturally columnar habit reaching 3-5 metres tall, making it ideal for screening without taking up excessive ground space.
• Beloved by gardeners for its low maintenance requirements and ability to be shaped into formal hedges or topiary features.

• Water weekly during first year, then monthly once established - check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun for brightest golden colour, though tolerates light shade in hot climates with some colour loss.
• Plant in well-draining soil, adding compost and sand to heavy clay soils to improve drainage.
• Feed with slow-release native plant fertiliser in spring, avoiding high-phosphorus products which can damage roots.
• Prune lightly in late winter for shaping, or trim 2-3 times during growing season for formal hedges.
• Mulch around base in summer to conserve moisture and protect roots from extreme heat.
• Protect young plants from strong winds until established, usually after 12-18 months of growth.

• Plant in full sun to partial shade for best golden foliage colour development. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in harsh Australian climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Young plants need regular moisture for first growing season.
• Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Light trimming throughout growing season keeps formal hedges neat.
• Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring and mulch around base to retain moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which can reduce golden colouring.

• Spider mites can attack during hot, dry conditions - increase humidity and use miticide spray if severe. Check undersides of foliage regularly for fine webbing.
• Cypress canker disease appears as brown patches on branches - prune affected areas immediately and ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal spread.
• Scale insects may cluster on stems and foliage - treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
• Root rot occurs in waterlogged soils - ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency. Yellowing from base upward indicates overwatering issues.