When choosing a conifer for screening or privacy, few options are as elegant and iconic as the Cupressus sempervirens, commonly known as the Italian Cypress. Among the popular varieties, Nitschkes Needles and Glauca (Italian Pencil Pine) are two fantastic choices that stand out for their vertical growth habit and suitability for narrow spaces. However, each has its distinct characteristics. Let’s take a closer look at the differences and why you might choose one over the other for your garden.

The Glauca, also known as the Italian Pencil Pine, is a taller and more dramatic choice for screening. Its sky-high vertical growth—reaching up to 12m—creates a striking silhouette in any landscape.

While it shares the same narrow width as Nitschkes Needles, its towering height makes it an impressive choice for larger properties or where a more dramatic visual impact is desired.

The Glauca has a slightly bluish-green hue that gives it a unique, cool-toned appearance, perfect for adding elegance and grandeur to formal gardens.

• Mature Size

10-12m tall x 1m wide.

• Recommended Spacing

1m apart for screening.

• Ideal Growing Conditions

Grows best in full sun to part shade.

• Growth Rate

Moderate to fast

For those seeking a slightly broader conifer, the Spartan Juniper offers a similar upright growth habit with a bit more width than the Italian Cypress varieties. This hardy plant is well-suited for screening, hedging, and even as a feature tree. Its dark green foliage provides excellent contrast, and it can adapt well to a wide range of soil types and conditions.

• Mature size

4-6m tall x 1-2m wide.

• Recommended spacing

1-1.5m apart for screening.

• Ideal growing conditions

Prefers full sun to part shade.

• Growth rate

Moderate to fast.