Species pond cypress
dark-green foliage with brown branches

pond cypress

Taxodium distichum var. imbricarium

Pond cypress, also known as Taxodium distichum var. imbricarium, a deciduous conifer, is native to the southeastern countries of the United States, and parts of northern Central America. It is a medium-sized tree that grows up to 50 feet tall. Its bark is grayish-brown in color, and its reddish-brown leaves are finely dissected. Its small, round, seed-bearing cones and cup-like cones are a distinguishing feature. It is a hydrophilic plant that prefers wet conditions, and can be found growing in swamps, bogs, wetlands, and near slow-moving streams and rivers. Pond cypress is an essential wetland species, providing food, cover, and nesting sites for several species of wildlife. Its wood is also valuable for its rot-resistant properties.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

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

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

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Pond Cypress should be watered well at least twice a week, with a generous amount of water each time. During the warmer months, the soil should be kept continually moist but not soggy. When watering, be sure to cover the root system thoroughly, soaking it until excess water flows out of the pot's drainage holes. During the winter months, watering should be reduced and only done if the soil is dry below the surface.

sunlight

Pond cypress (Taxodium distichum var. imbricarium) is a plant species that prefers full sun exposure for most of the day. It should receive around 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for best growth and health. It thrives in areas with sunlight in the morning hours, as well as afternoon and evening light. Partial sun is also suitable for pond cypress, but it should not be in full shade. If the species is exposed to too much direct sunlight in areas with harsh summers, it is best to give it some afternoon shade to provide relief from the heat.

pruning

Pond cypress (Taxodium distichum var. imbricarium) should be pruned in early spring before new growth appears. Pruning should be done lightly and selectively, with only dead, damaged, and crossing branches removed. Young trees should not be pruned as this will affect their growth and shape. Older trees may require more trimming to keep them at desired size. Prune branches that are rubbing against 1 another, those that are growing inward, and any branches that may be blocking pathways or causing a safety hazard.

Season

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

Pond cypress typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map