Species Arizona cypress

Arizona cypress

Cupressus arizonica

Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) is an evergreen conifer native to southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its narrow, columnar conical shape with dense foliage make it an ideal specimen tree or hedge. The grey-green foliage remains on the tree year-round, and provides a striking contrast in landscape design. The bark is red-brown and highly textured. This species is highly drought-resistant, and can survive in temperatures below 0°F. It prefers dry soils, so irrigation is not required in most regions. It's a great choice for windy areas, since its stiffness resists the wind. Its dense foliage is also great for blocking noise. Arizona cypress is an excellent choice for low maintenance, evergreen landscaping.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7

Flowers:

No flowers, Yellow, Brown Flowers In Winter

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Alkaline, Well-drained

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

The Arizona cypress is a relatively drought-tolerant plant species, and does not need to be watered very often. During summer months, it should be watered about once every 2 weeks, providing roughly 1 inch of water each time. During winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, watering should be reduced to once a month. Pay close attention to soil texture and consistency and adjust watering frequency accordingly; if the soil feels dry to the touch, the plant may need an extra drink. Avoid overwatering, as too much water can lead to fungal diseases.

sunlight

Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) does best with full sun to partial shade. In ideal conditions associated with full sun, the tree will thrive and grow faster. To ensure optimal growth, individual trees should receive at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Shade tolerant trees require less sunlight, but the amount of shade provided should be limited to less than 50% of total sun exposure. Direct afternoon sun is recommended as the length of days, and the intensity of sunlight, decreases with the progression of the season.

pruning

Arizona cypress is a fast-growing evergreen that prefers full sun and low water. Pruning is best done in early summer when new growth is actively pushing. To maintain its natural shape and form, prune Arizona cypress annually. Remove damaged or dead branches, any conflicting branches that are growing inward, and lightly trim the plant’s exterior shape to keep it in check. For ornamental reasons, selectively prune back the topmost fresh shoots to promote bushier growth lower on the plant.

Season

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

Arizona cypress typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in April or May.

Hardiness Map