In that scenario, the 'berm' looks like it was intended as a landscape design feature. Normally, you'd plant something on the berm that was shrub-like and would benefit from the 18"-24" height boost for backyard privacy.

Planting full sized Cyptomeria on that berm seems completely pointless.

Thanks. no idea it was called that. Our cryptomeria is still a juvenille and may benefit from the added height. ive also considered Bay or Cherry Laurel.

From a landscape design standpoint, there is no limit to the height of any plantings on a berm. Berms are often intended as design features in and of themselves, giving some contour and dimension to an otherwise completely flat and nondescript yard but are also used for a number of other purposes. However, there are design concerns involved when constructing the berm, size-appropriateness being a primary one. And the one in the photo is not designed to a scale/size appropriate to the plantings selected - it should be about twice that size (length and width: maximum height is a determination of square footage).

It also loses a lot of potential as a design element if only a single plant type is used. I'd mix it up a bit.
How to design and construct a berm.

Like Gardengal says, the berm is too small for what's planted on it. To me, it looks like they buried something there. It's not 'connected' to anything and other than privacy, I can see no reason why it's there. It sticks out like a sore thumb and needs some more embellishments besides one boulder.

Maybe they're just getting started. Looks like a new development. Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon' would have been a better choice of Cryptomeria. Not so tall and a bit denser.

Mike...Monday morning quarterback.

its a bit random yes. if we go with a Berm in our yard. id do it for one Jap Cypress, two leylands and mix in hosta around with rock feautures perhaps knockout roses.

thanks for the help, especially the drainage part. we get a ton if rain here, it seems Radicans is pretty drought resistant.

This sort of thing can be beneficial in a certain context...but not with this plant and situation.

I'm confused though...I guess you also mean Lowe's also did the "landscaping" such as it was? And didn't just sell them?

this photo is just near my house. my wife and i have purchased these same plants from Lowe's and are looking at using a berm in our own landscaping project.

ha. until your alls responses i never knew this technique existed. those arent our trees lol. i should have mentioned that piece of evidence