Sow seeds in spring in either a seedbed or in containers (in a cold frame). Cold frames are protective structures, located outside for propagating and growing plants. Can also propagate by rooting cuttings in late fall or early winter.

Conifers with small, scale-like leaves and marble to golf ball sized cones, which may stay on the tree unopened for years. Does best in full sun. If grown inside, make sure to provide good ventilation. Protect from cold and dry winds.

Cupressus bears cones. The female cones ripen during the second year. Foliage is fragrant for some species. For example, the glandless needles of C. goveniana are lemon-scented when crushed.

Tolerates a range of soils from alkaline to acid, and heavy to light. Prefers well-drained soil and is very drought and heat tolerant.

Fertilization is not generally required for good plant output when grown in the landscape.  When growing plants in the Cupressus genus in containers be sure to use a water soluble fertilizer at low concentration once every other week during the growing season.  Do not over fertilize.

Remove crossing shoots, annually, in late winter or early spring. Also, in late spring, trim hedges making sure not to cut back into old wood.

Scale insects, caterpillars, bark beetles, and sawfly. Other problems include tip and branch dieback, needle blights, root rot, and canker.