Species bald cypress

bald cypress

Taxodium distichum 'Pendens'

The bald cypress (Taxodium distichum 'Pendens') is a fascinating specimen of the cypress family. Grown primarily in the southeastern United states, this evergreen conifer features graceful, arching, weeping branches that drape from a trunk of twisted, reddish-brown bark. It is also extremely tolerant of moist ground and wet conditions, making it a great choice for a privacy screen, windbreak, or accent in the landscape. Numerous curly needles create an airy, feathery texture to the top, and in the fall, the yellow tips turn a russet brown that adds a nice dimension to the tree. The bald cypress requires little maintenance and can easily grow 40 -60 feet tall with a wider spread once mature.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Bog, Well-drained

Fruits:

brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

gold,bronze,green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum 'Pendens') is a native conifer that can be grown as a shade tree. It requires moist, acidic, well-drained soil and grows best in full sun or partial shade. For best results, it should be watered deeply and evenly once a week during the growing season (spring to fall). During dry periods, it may require more frequent watering; however, avoid overwatering, as too much can lead to soggy soil and root rot. In winter, reduce watering to every 2 to 3 weeks.

sunlight

Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum ‘Pendens’) is native to southeastern United States and can tolerate a wide range of light intensity. The best location for this species is full sun to light shade, although some dappled shade is also okay. Generally, the plant should get 6-8 hours of direct sun per day. If the plant is in a place with more shade, it could survive but will not reach its full potential. Minimal amounts of reflected light can help if the plant is in a mostly shaded environment. Also, bald cypress does not do well in heavily shaded environments.

pruning

Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum 'Pendens') should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring, just before its new growth begins. Pruning should be light and targeted, focusing on removing dead or damaged wood, formative pruning, and removing over-long or crossing branches. Make sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears and prune back branches to an outward-facing bud. Pruning bald cypress too severely can lead to a decrease in leaf size and overall vigor, so avoid cutting into green growth. If you are unsure about how to prune, consult your local tree care professional.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Taxodium distichum 'Pendens' (bald cypress) is typically in the months of October and November.

Starts Flowering

Taxodium distichum 'Pendens' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Taxodium distichum 'Pendens' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map