Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress

General

Bald cypress is a deciduous conifer found primarily in swamps and floodplains. It features delicate, fern-like foliage that turns a striking reddish-brown in autumn, and is notable for its unique, knobby structures known as "knees" that rise from its wetland environment.

Plant Description

Characterized by its finely textured, feathery foliage that changes to a rich reddish-brown in the fall. It features a distinctive, fluted trunk and unique aerial roots known as "knees" that emerge from the surrounding water or mud. The tree's bark is fibrous and stringy, often peeling off in long strips, adding to its distinctive appearance.

Height (ft)
50'-70'

Spread (ft)
20'-30'

Soil moisture
Moist to wet

Soil types
Clay, sandy, loamy soils

Wetland indicator
FACW

Shade tolerance
Full Sun to Part Sun

Bloom color
Small, brown cones

Bloom period
Late summer/early fall

Fall conspicuous
Yes

Anaerobic tolerance
High

Drought tolerance
Low

Salinity tolerance
Moderate

Self-Pollinating?
Yes

Range

Native from New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and extending south to Florida, Alabama, Arkansas, Texas.

Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]

Additional Information