Bald Cypress

Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) is a long-lived, deciduous conifer native to the southeastern United States, known for its feathery foliage, buttressed trunk, and adaptability to wet or dry conditions. Also known as Swamp Cypress, this unique tree lends a dramatic, architectural quality to landscapes and thrives in both urban and naturalized settings.

Distinctive Features

This pyramidal tree can reach 50 to 70 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide, with fine, soft green needles that turn rich russet-orange in fall before dropping. Its flared trunk base and distinctive �knees� may develop in wet soils, adding character and enhancing stability. Reddish-brown bark peels in strips, and round, woody cones mature in fall, providing subtle seasonal interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Clay, loam, or sandy soil; tolerant of wet or dry conditions
• Soil pH: Acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: High in wet soils, moderate once established in dry locations
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in large lawns, parks, or estates
• Rain gardens or water�s edge plantings
• Urban landscapes with compacted or poor soils
• Windbreaks or shelterbelts in open areas
• Reclamation and habitat restoration sites

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune only to remove dead or damaged limbs
• Mulch around the base to preserve moisture and limit weeds
• Water during prolonged dry spells in early years
• Allow room for mature trunk flare and surface roots
• No serious pest or disease issues to monitor

Why Choose Bald Cypress

• Highly adaptable to both wet and dry environments
• Unique texture and seasonal color changes
• Striking form and flared base create visual drama
• Low maintenance and long-lived with few problems
• A bold, sculptural focal point for challenging sites

Bald Cypress offers a powerful blend of durability, elegance, and seasonal change, making it a compelling focal point for landscapes ranging from waterfronts to urban corridors.