Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest'

Bring instant freshness to your space with Lemon Cypress ‘Goldcrest’—a vivid evergreen with soft, feathery foliage and a clean lemony aroma. Its naturally neat, conical form looks premium on office desks, reception counters, balconies, and entryways. Give it bright light and steady moisture, and it will stay dense, colorful, and beautifully sculpted all season.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Lemon Cypress ‘Goldcrest’
Botanical Name: Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest'
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Evergreen conifer houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0050
Alternative Names:
Lemon-scented cypress
Goldcrest cypress

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Pinales
Family: Cupressaceae
Genus: Cupressus
Species: C. macrocarpa

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the Central Coast region of California, USA; widely cultivated as an ornamental in temperate and Mediterranean climates worldwide.

4. Visual Characteristics

Evergreen with bright green, soft, feathery, scale-like foliage; naturally conical to columnar form; compact habit when container-grown; young shoots release a fresh lemon scent when crushed; bark smooth and gray-brown, becoming fissured with age.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors: Typically maintained at 30–60 cm (12–24 in) for tabletop use. Outdoors: can reach 7–12 m (23–39 ft) tall with a 3–5 m (10–16 ft) spread. Moderate growth rate (~15–30 cm/yr).

6. Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. Outdoors thrives in full sun exposure. Indoors place near a south- or west-facing window providing at least 4–6 hours of bright light daily; avoid deep shade.

7. Watering Needs

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water when top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry. Reduce frequency in winter, ensuring soil never dries out completely. Good drainage essential to prevent root rot.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining mix rich in organic matter: ideal blend is 2 parts peat or coco coir to 1 part perlite or coarse sand. Soil pH slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0). Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound, increasing pot diameter by 2–5 cm.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature: 10–24 °C (50–75 °F). Tolerates brief dips to 5 °C (41 °F) but not freezing. Prefers moderate humidity; average indoor levels are acceptable but benefits from occasional misting or pebble tray.

10. Fertilization

Apply a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) in early spring. During active growth, feed monthly with a diluted (½ strength) water-soluble fertilizer. Stop feeding in late fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Moderate care requirements. Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead or discolored foliage. Inspect regularly for pests. Annual shaping recommended to retain a dense, uniform form. Low tolerance for prolonged neglect.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagation by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer: trim 8–10 cm tips, apply rooting hormone, and place in a moist, well-draining medium under mist or high humidity; roots form in 4–8 weeks. Seeds require stratification (30–60 days) before spring sowing. Grafting used in commercial production.

13. Common Problems

Overwatering may cause root rot; drought stress leads to browning needles. Yellowing foliage indicates nutrient deficiency or poor drainage. Susceptible to spider mites, cypress aphids, and fungal cankers (e.g., Seiridium).

14. Benefits & Uses

Popular ornamental for tabletops, patios, and holiday décor due to vibrant foliage and lemon scent. Suitable for gifting. Can improve indoor air quality by trapping dust and particulates. Used as specimen or hedge plant in landscape settings.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Generally non-toxic to humans and pets; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Essential oils can irritate skin and eyes—handle foliage with care and wash hands after contact.