Both those people are probably growing the trees indoors.
Monterey cypress is hardy to about Zone 9, so you can't grow it outdoors,
except in Vancouver. However, it needs very high humidity. If it is turning
brown, it is probably dead.

Chinese privet is Ligustrum sinense. It is hardy to Zone 7, which means it
should probably be outdoors most of the year, with a protected dormant period
in the winter.
Iris,
Central NY, Zone 5a, Sunset Zone 40
"If we see light at the end of the tunnel, It's the light of the oncoming
train."
Robert Lowell (1917-1977)