Mississippi Native: Bald Cypress
(Taxodium distichum)
Downloadable Brochure: BALD CYPRESS
Other Name/s:
Southern Bald Cypress, Deciduous Cypress, Gulf Cypress, and Swamp Cypress
Description:
This tree is an aquatic, deciduous conifer. The trunks are enlarged at the base, and frequently, “knees” are seen projecting from the ground around the tree. Knees develop mostly in poorly drained areas.
It has widely spreading branches and slender, sage-green leaves, which resemble feathers. Leaves turn a copper color before falling. The bark is red-brown to silver in color.
Season:
The bald cypress is deciduous, which means it sheds its leaves each year, beginning in October/November to February/March, depending on location. It has a tiny purple bloom in April. By August the bald cypress fruit is fully developed.
Size:
This plant grows 50 to 75 feet tall. Bald cypress can be anywhere from 3 to 6 feet in diameter.
Habitat:
Bald cypress trees are typically found growing in saturated soils, swamps, and stream banks, growing naturally in floodplains, river channels, and millponds.
Interesting Facts:
Bald cypress wood is called the “eternal wood” because the heartwood is very resistant to decay.
Planting Tips:
For better growth, plant trees in moist, well-drained soil in full sun.
