Bald Cypress
A Prehistoric, Ancient Beauty
This stately, deciduous conifer tree thrives in zones 4-9.
Taxodium distichum, commonly known as the bald cypress tree, is a remarkable and ancient species that has graced our planet for millennia. Fossil evidence suggests that this remarkable tree species has remained virtually unchanged since the time of the dinosaurs. Native to the southeastern United States, the bald cypress has long been cherished for its striking appearance and adaptability to wetland environments. Throughout history, these trees have played a crucial role in the culture and economy of the regions where they thrive, offering valuable timber and inspiring countless legends.
The fibrous, furrowed bark of a bald cypress tree.
The bald cypress stands apart from other conifers due to its unusual deciduous habit, bearing cones like other conifers yet undergoing the seasonal leaf drop typical of deciduous trees. While most conifers are evergreen, retaining their needles throughout the year, the feathery, needle-like leaves of the bald cypress turn vibrant shades of orange and russet brown in autumn, before falling to the ground. During the winter, tassel-like, drooping clusters of inconspicuous flowers appear on the branches and bloom in the springtime. The trunk of a bald cypress tree is typically straight and stout, featuring unique reddish-brown to gray bark that becomes deeply furrowed and fibrous as it matures, evoking an otherworldly charm reminiscent of The Hobbit.
Bald cypress trees thrive in zones 4-9, and prefer full sun and deep, fine, sandy soils with plenty of moisture. They are remarkably adaptable and surprising in their ability to thrive in extreme conditions, from growing submerged in water to handling the dry conditions and compacted soil of parking lots. Regular watering is essential during their early years, but once established, they are quite low-maintenance. (Learn more about the watering requirements of young trees in “How to Water a Tree”.) Pruning should focus on dead or diseased branches and should be done sparingly. Additionally, mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Rutgers University rates bald cypress as “occasionally severely damaged” on their list of Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance.
Bald cypress trees are known for their impressive longevity. In optimal growing conditions, and when properly cared for, these trees can live for hundreds of years or more. In the United States, Black River Preserve in North Carolina is home to some of the oldest trees on the planet.
“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they will never sit.”
Is the Bald Cypress a Fast Growing Tree?
A healthy bald cypress tree can be expected to grow at a moderate rate of 1-2 feet per year. Mature trees can reach 50-70 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide, with some wild specimens growing up to 100 feet tall. Some cultivars of the tree have a smaller and shorter stature, but still grow at the same moderate growth rate as the species (read on for more information about bald cypress cultivars).
It's important to note that the bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) is distinctly different from the Leyland cypress (× Cuprocyparis leylandii), with each belonging to separate genera and having contrasting growth habits. The Leyland cypress is known for its rapid growth and was once widely used to create quick screening hedges, until problems with winter damage, disease, and insects surfaced. Many gardeners and landscapers are looking to remove these disease-prone, short-lived trees, and they are no longer recommended for planting. In contrast, the bald cypress tree is long-lived, far less disease-prone, and has a slower growth rate. Bald cypress trees are more suited for use as a specimen or accent tree, a street tree, or for planting in wet or wide open areas, rather than creating a quick screening hedge.
Can I Plant a Bald Cypress Tree in My Pond?
Yes, you can plant a bald cypress tree in or near a pond or water feature, as these trees are well-suited to wetland environments. In fact, they are often used for pond landscaping and are known for their ability to thrive in wet soils.
Plant the bald cypress tree or seedling at the water’s edge, making sure the taproot is left intact and undisturbed, and the rootlets are not damaged. Make sure the plant is not completely submerged in water. In wetter areas, you may see cypress knees developing around the tree. These are a natural feature of the tree and can add to the overall aesthetic.
What are Bald Cypress Knees?
One of the most intriguing features of the bald cypress tree is its cypress knees. These unusual structures are knobby root projections that rise above the waterline in wetland areas. While their exact purpose remains a subject of scientific debate, some theories suggest that cypress knees help the tree acquire oxygen in waterlogged soil or provide additional structural support. These knees add a distinctive and captivating element to the tree's overall appearance, making it a favorite among landscape designers and architects. Most cypress trees planted in average, well-draining soil do not produce knees.
Is it OK to Cut Off Bald Cypress Knees?
Bald cypress knees can be cut off, but it is generally not recommended. Cutting off the knees causes a mechanical injury to the tree, making it more susceptible to diseases, pests, and other stressors. If you have a specific reason to remove cypress knees, it's advisable to consult with an ISA-certified professional arborist who can assess the situation and determine the best course of action while minimizing harm to the tree.
The knobby knees of a bald cypress tree.
Is a Bald Cypress Tree Good for My Backyard?
Whether a bald cypress tree is a good fit for your backyard depends on several factors, including climate, space, and landscape design goals. Bald cypress trees need full sunlight, and can withstand the winter temperatures of gardening zones 4-9. If you are not sure what your gardening zone is, check out the USDA’s map here.
Ensure you have enough space in your backyard to accommodate the mature size of this stately tree, and consider the proximity of utility lines and structures in your backyard, as the tree can grow large and may interfere with these if not properly situated. Cultivars vary in size and appearance, with worthy choices for a wide array of settings:
Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), the original, unaltered straight species, soars to heights of 50-70 feet or more, making it suitable for large outdoor spaces, parks, and spacious yards.
Autumn Gold™ (Taxodium distichum ‘Sofine’ Autumn Gold™) has a compact, pyramidal shape and excellent rusty orange fall color. Grows 50-70 feet high and 20-30 feet wide.
‘Cascade Falls’ (Taxodium distichum ‘Cascade Falls’) has a unique weeping habit, with gracefully arching branches. Young trees require staking. Grows 20 feet high and wide, and makes an excellent vertical accent.
‘Falling Waters’ (Taxodium distichum ‘Falling Waters’) is a weeping version with branches cascading down from a strong central leader. Grows up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide.
Green Whisper ® (Taxodium distichum ‘JFS-SGPN’ Green Whisper®) has soft, bright green foliage and an upright pyramidal shape. Mature size is 55 feet tall and 30 feet wide.
Lindsey’s Skyward™ (Taxodium distichum ‘Skyward’ Lindsey’s Skyward™) has a narrow, columnar growth habit, making it a great choice for smaller gardens. It grows 25-30 feet tall and 5-10 feet wide.
‘Peve Minaret’ (Taxodium distichum ‘Peve Minaret’) forms a dense, tight spire and grows 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it a great choice for smaller yards.
‘Peve Yellow’ (Taxodium distichum ‘Peve Yellow’) is narrow and open-branching, with yellow spring foliage. Grows to 10 feet tall and 5 feet wide.
Shawnee Brave™ (Taxodium distichum ‘Mickelson’ Shawnee Brave™) has a narrow, pyramidal shape makes a great street tree or specimen. Grows 50-75 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide.
The orange-brown autumnal brilliance of a bald cypress tree.
How to Grow and Care for a Bald Cypress Tree
Planting: The best time of year to plant a bald cypress tree is in fall, late winter or early spring, giving the roots time to establish before the onset of extreme hot or cold weather. Water deeply immediately after planting.
Location: Bald cypress trees prefer full sun and fine, sandy soil. They will tolerate an astonishingly wide range of conditions, including clay, muck, waterlogged soil, and standing water.They can also handle periods of drought and do well as a street tree or planted next to a paved area like a driveway or parking lot.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the tree's first few years of growth. Deep watering is preferable to encourage the development of a strong root system. Once established, bald cypress trees are somewhat drought-tolerant, but they still benefit from occasional deep watering during dry spells. (Are you in a drought? Check the U.S. Drought Monitor).
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Fertilizing: Bald cypress trees don't require much fertilization, especially if they are planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring, following the manurfacturer’s directions given on the package.
Pruning: The bald cypress tree requires little pruning to maintain its shape and develop a strong structure. Dead or damaged branches can be pruned out, as needed.
Pests and diseases: Bagworms and mites can be occasional problems. Ensure good air circulation around your tree to minimize the risk of disease, and practice good watering habits (see “How to Water a Tree: Watering Strategies for Happy and Healthy Trees”).