Swamp Cypress

"Swamp Cypress"
A deciduous conifer that is tall, hardy, and tough, with waterproof bark. Often found in forgotten swamps. This tree adapts to a wide range of soil types, and water availability, whether wet, dry, or swampy. It is noted for the rusty red fall color of its lacy needles and wide buttressed trunk.

Basic Information

Anatomy

A deciduous conifer with grayish brown to reddish brown bark that is thin and fibrous. It has a wider trunk base with narrow furrows called buttresses. The needle-like leaves are .5 to .75 inch long and are simple, alternate, green and linear. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow or copper red. The main trunk is often surrounded by woody, knobby, cypress knees rising out of the surroundings from the roots.

Genetics and Reproduction

Tree has male and female flowers on a single plant that bloom in early spring and the seeds ripen in fall. Buds are formed in late autumn, with pollination in early winter, and mature in about 12 months. The .5 to 1.5 inch purple cones disintegrate at maturity to release the seeds. Trees do not produce seeds until 30 years or older. Cut stumps may produce new sprouts.

Growth Rate & Stages

Fast growing early on, about 3 feet in the first year. 10 feet in 5 years, 60 feet in 41 years, and 110 feet in 96 years, height growth slowly and eventually stops by the time the trees are 200 years old. Some individuals can live over 1,000 years, many are 1500 years old or more.

Ecology and Habitats

This tree grows easily in light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. It does well in acid and neutral soils and even salty soils. It can grow in full sun to semi-shade. This species can grow in water, moist soil, or well-drained soil but can tolerate dry soil as well.

Dietary Needs and Habits

This tree prefers sun and lots of water.

Biological Cycle

Trees mature after 30 years and grow male and female flower on the same tree, eventually developing purple cones. The needles are dropped each winter and then grow a new set in spring.

Additional Information

Domestication

This tree is easily suitable for cultivation in a variety of soil and lighting conditions. It prefers lots of water.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Water proof lumber, coffins, canoes, boat planks, flooring, shelving, furniture, carvings, docks, river pilings.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

The swamp cypress grows wherever it is warm and swampy, enjoying full sunlight to partial shade. This species grows best in wet or well-drained soil but can tolerate dry soil.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Plant

Scientific Name

Taxodium Palus

Lifespan

Slow growing but may live over 1,000 years, many are 1500 years old or more.

Conservation Status

A common tree found in many warm marshy areas.

Average Height

35 to 120 feet tall.

Average Length

3 to 6 feet wide.

Average Physique

Tall and thin with a much wider buttressed trunk.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The bark is grayish brown to reddish brown, thin, and fibrous. It has a wide buttressed trunk. Small green needle-like leaves. Tree has male and female flowers with purple cones.