Can I clip the Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) to limit its size? Will it grow back from old wood?

Answer 1

I partly disagree from previous answer even if supported by an University report.
I don't know where you are living and if this different location is representing a limitation but here in Italy we are regularly pruning the Cypress to limit its size provided they are not too big. Here we regularly prune a 2-3 times a year any cypress not taller than 8'/10' (3 yds= 3 meters). If they're bigger than 10' it's then too late to prune it extremely. You can keep it as they're but not reduce.Then just prune their tops.
They will not grow back from where is the pruning's cut but a new branch will start growing immediately below the last cut.

Answer 2

Ok i just looked this up for you and i guess they said that you CANNOT prune it because it is very prone to mites and can be easily infested....you can look on the site...