They may have originated in the Middle East, but for most people cypress trees bring to mind only one place – Tuscany.Believed to be supernatural by early tribesman due to their ability to survive even the harshest winters, the evergreen Tuscan cypress tree can live for up to 2,000 years and was historically planted around burial grounds. The fragrant scent of the resin was thought to ward off evil spirits and ensure safe passage to the after-life. Planting cypress had a practical use too.Today, it’s the visual appeal of the Tuscan cypress that lingers. Tall and strong, a row of cypress trees on a hill not only make for a great wind-break to protect the land, but a majestic framing device to compose a masterpiece from even the most everyday landscape.