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A. The bald cypress is a beautiful, hardy, native North American tree. It is so tough and adaptable that it grows, and grows well, from the Everglades of Florida all the way to southern Canada. Unfortunately for the homeowner who has to deal with them, "knees" seem to be one of the adaptive tools the bald cypress has used to ensure its survival.
The bald cypress is a long-lived, deciduous conifer, with a conical shaped canopy of delicate, fern-like leaves. This stately tree may grow to 100-150' tall, with a buttressed trunk 3-5' in diameter. Its preferred habitat seems to be full sun or partial shade in swampy locations, but it will also do well in dry soil. Its wood is resistant to rot and insect damage; the softwood lumber is favored for shingles, construction, fence posts, flooring, caskets, interior trim and cabinetry. Bald cypress wood is said to have been a favorite of Frank Lloyd Wright. Resin from the cones is used in certain folk remedies, and the knees are often harvested, carved, fashioned as decorative accessories, and sold in souvenir shops.
Experts cannot agree about the function of the knees, which are part of the root system and may grow as high as 12 feet tall. Some believe the knees anchor the tree in the soft, muddy soil in which it likes to grow. Others believe these above-ground growths supply oxygen to the roots. All the experts seem to agree that correctly watered trees do not produce knees.
Whether due to homeowners excessively watering, or to the usually high amount of rainfall our area receives, or just to the nature of the tree, many bald cypresses planted in landscapes here will produce knees. The knees can be mowed down before they become too tall, although any cut area can become an entry point for disease. The knees are tough and can also take their toll on lawnmower blades. However, if you're willing to take a chance, you won't be disappointed with the beauty this fast-growing, long-lived tree will add to your landscape. And there's always that souvenir shop opportunity.