Family: Taxodiaceae
Common Name: Bald Cypress, Swamp Cypress

There are only three species in this genus of conifers from eastern North America and the highlands of Mexico. Unlike most other conifers, they are deciduous, but instead of shedding their leaves, they shed small branch-lets with the leaves attached. These trees are grown for their fresh, emerald green foliage and lovely autumn tones of yellowish or coppery brown. They produce numerous, small pollen cones in drooping sprays at the branch ends, while the roundish seed cones are borne in clusters on stouter branchlets. Taxodiums make outstand­ing specimen trees where space permits.

Species

T. distichum, bald cypress, from eastern North America, can grow to heights of 45 m (145 ft) in the wild, but is mostly around 20 m (65 ft) in cultivation. It has a pyramidal crown, spreading to around 7 m (23 ft). The tiny, slender leaves are closely arranged in two flat rows and, in cooler climates, colour a deep, rusty brown in autumn.

T. mucronatum, Montezuma cypress, is similar to disticlnun, with identical leaves, but differs in growth habit, with a huge trunk and widely spreading branches. Huge specimens can be seen in its native Mexico, the most famous being the great tree of Tule.

Cultivation

These conifers prefer a well-drained site, though they will adapt to poorly drained conditions. T. distichum is best suited to cooler areas and T. mucronatum to warmer climates, but both can be grown in a range of climates, preferring sheltered, humid conditions with plenty of sun. They can be grown in most soil types, except very shallow, rocky, or alkaline soils. Their growth is faster and more luxuriant if planted on pond or stream banks. Propagate from hardwood cuttings in winter, under glass, or from seed sown in spring, in a garden frame. In very cold climates, protect young plants from severe frosts.

Climate

Zone 5 for T. distichum; zone 8-9 for T. mucronatum.