Cypress Bald
Taxodium distichumBald Cypress is a stately deciduous conifer renowned for its feathery, needle-like foliage that turns brilliant shades of copper and orange in autumn. Its tall, pyramidal form and horizontal branching create a dramatic presence in both wetland and upland landscapes. Unlike most conifers, Bald Cypress sheds its needles each winter, revealing a textured, sculptural branch structure that maintains visual interest year-round. Native to southeastern U.S. swamps, this tree is exceptionally adaptable, thriving in waterlogged soils, along riverbanks, and in average garden soils with adequate moisture.
Bald Cypress is highly valued for its ornamental and ecological benefits. Its unique root “knees” emerging from wet soils not only create a distinctive aesthetic but also help stabilize riverbanks and wetlands. The tree provides habitat for birds and small wildlife, while its tolerance to flooding, heat, and occasional drought makes it a durable and low-maintenance landscape choice. Whether used as a specimen tree, in wet gardens, or along water features, Bald Cypress combines seasonal beauty with practical environmental benefits.
Care Instructions
Planting:
Plant in full sun. Select an area with consistent moisture or occasional wet conditions. Allow space for mature height and spread.
Watering:
Water regularly during establishment. Once established, tolerates wet conditions but also adapts to moderate drought.
Pruning:
Prune minimally to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Late winter is ideal.
Pest Control:
Generally pest-resistant. Monitor occasionally for bagworms or scale.
Soil Tips:
Thrives in wet, acidic soils but tolerates loamy or clay soils. Ensure good drainage if planted upland.
