Bald Cypress

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

50-70 Feet

Mature Spread

20-45 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 9

If you have space for it, the Bald Cypress makes for a seriously special specimen. Taxodium distichum, as it is also known, unusually drops its needles in winter, but only before they turn a wonderful red in the fall. A large tree with a pyramidal shape, Bald Cypress grows to 70 feet tall. Small, rounded purple-green cones hold on well into winter. 

The deciduous Bald Cypress is a native of the Midwest and adapted to growing in zones 4 to 9. It is tough and hardy and can grow in a range of soil types. It is often found growing in parks and communal spaces. This tree is ideal for urban locations as it tolerates pollution well. 

Bald Cypress Care

With a height of up to 70 feet, you will want to plant this tree away from any utility lines or overhanging structures. It has a preference for full sun and acidic soil and can cope with occasional flooding and moist sites. Although not strictly necessary, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Water it frequently for the first few growing seasons. 

Minimal pruning is needed for the Bald Cypress. However, if desired you can prune in late winter. 

Bald Cypress Spacing

A mature Bald Cypress can reach a size of 50 to 70 feet tall and 25 to 45 feet wide. If growing in a line, you can space this tree around 25 to 30 feet apart center to center.

Image courtesy of MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

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