Cypress trees were once widely distributed across North America, but those prehistoric forests are now partially extinct, thanks to man. The wood is extremely resistant to decay and was considered valuable as a building material. Cypress trees can live for hundreds of years and are close relatives of the Sequoia and redwood of California. They are deciduous conifers. Only three forms of the genus remain-bald cypress (Taxodium distichum var.distichum) pond cypress (Taxodium distichum var. Nutans), and Montezuma cypress (Taxodium mucronatum), a native of Mexico.
These majestic trees grow in and along flowing water-river swamps, stream banks, spring runs, and along lake shores. However, one of the greatest misconceptions about cypress is that it has to have WET soil. In actuality, the seed must be in a source of constant moisture for germination to occur, but the resulting plant is very adaptable to wet or dry sites; however, it can become chlorotic in high pH soils. The "knees" are a part of the root system that grow above the soil. They vary in height, but some have been reported up to twelve feet tall. Their biological function is yet to be determined. Some studies have reported that they serve to supply oxygen to the roots (gas exchange), yet other scientists believe that they anchor the tree in its unstable environment. Perhaps they do both. A cypress tree makes an excellent specimen in the landscape. Its adaptability makes it a good choice for street-tree use. The foliage is spirally arranged along the stems and has a unique, attractive texture. New growth is light green, turning to a softer but darker green in the summer. The trunk is scalloped at the base and has a rich brown color. Growth pattern is pyramidal. Cypress trees are wind-firm, long-lived and truly majestic in appearance.
Plant one-you won't be sorry.
Joe Whetsell, M.D., Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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