Botanical Name: Cupressus macrocarpa âGoldcrestâ
Common Names: Goldcrest Cypress, Lemon Cypress, Monterey Cypress âGoldcrestâ, Lemon Scented Cypress
đ Product Description
Cupressus macrocarpa âGoldcrestâ is a striking evergreen conifer valued for its vibrant golden-yellow foliage and naturally narrow, conical growth habit. The foliage releases a fresh lemon fragrance when brushed or crushed, making it both ornamental and sensory.
This cultivar of Monterey Cypress maintains its bright colour throughout the year, especially when grown in full sun. Its upright, symmetrical form makes it ideal for feature planting, entrance statements, and formal garden structure.
Popular in South African gardens for hedging, screening, or as a bold container specimen, âGoldcrestâ provides year-round colour and architectural impact.
đ Size When Fully Grown
Height: 4 â 6 m (can be maintained lower with pruning)
Spread: 1 â 2 m
Growth Habit: Upright, narrow conical evergreen
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
đ± Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun (essential for best golden colour)
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Water:
- Water regularly during establishment
- Allow soil to dry slightly between watering
- Moderately drought tolerant once established
- Avoid waterlogged soil
Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage colour.
Maintenance:
- Light pruning maintains shape and density
- Trim in spring or late summer if used as a hedge
- Protect young plants from severe frost
đŠïž Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring or early autumn
Active Growth: Spring and summer
Climate Suitability: Suitable for most South African temperate and coastal regions
Frost Tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate frost once established
Wind Tolerance: Moderate wind tolerance
đŒ Additional Benefits
- Bright golden year-round colour
- Fresh lemon scent when touched
- Excellent feature or hedge plant
- Evergreen structure
- Low maintenance once established
đż Ideal Uses
â Feature garden specimen
â Entrance statement plant
â Formal hedging
â Container planting
â Mediterranean-style gardens









