Popular Hybrid Trees

Types

• The Leyland cypress (Cuppressocyparis Leylandii) is a hybrid of the Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and the Nootka cypress (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis). The saucer magnolia (M. x soulangeana) is the result of a cross between M. denudata and M. liliiflora.

Popularity

• Leyland cypress is cited as among the most useful and attractive hybrid trees, or a "super tree," by the Floridata website. The fast-growing tree is used for creating hedges and windbreaks. Saucer magnolia tree is the most commonly planted variety of deciduous magnolia.

Description

• An evergreen conifer, the Leyland cypress achieves a mature height of over 100 feet. The tree has a symmetrical, upright form with dense, flat sprays of needles growing on slightly upwards curving branches. Saucer magnolia grows 20 to 30 feet tall with an equal spread and blooms with 5- to 10-inch wide, saucer-shaped, satiny flower in early spring prior to foliage growth. The tree has 6-inch long leathery, dark green foliage.