Taxodium distichum aka Bald Cypress

Taxonomy

Taxodium distichum, also known as bald cypress or swamp cypress, is a deciduous conifer in the Cupressaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is known for its adaptability to a wide range of soil types, including wet, salty, dry, and swampy soils. The tree is hardy and tough, and its lacy needles turn a beautiful russet-red in the fall. Bald cypress is a popular choice for gardeners worldwide for the light shade it provides in parks, streets, and gardens. The species is hardier and more widely distributed than the Pond Cypress species, which is also native to the US. Bald cypress is a big deciduous conifer that sheds its leaves in autumn and is famous for its "knees," pieces of root that grow above the ground in strange shapes. Bald cypress is a rare houseplant that is easy to grow and needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and soil that is well-draining. The plant doesn't require added fertilizers if you repot it each time it doubles in size. Cultivated varieties of bald cypress are often used in groupings in public spaces. Common names for the tree include white cypress, tidewater red cypress, gulf cypress, and red cypress. In Louisiana, the bald cypress was designated the official state tree in 1963, and in French, it is known as "cyprès chauve" or "cipre." The Taxodium genus includes the bald cypress and is native to Southern Texas to Guatemala.

Common names

Bald Cypress, Swamp Cypress, Southern Cypress

How to care for Bald Cypress

Difficulty

Bald Cypress requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Bald Cypress should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Bald Cypress loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Bald Cypress requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Bald Cypress will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Bald Cypress is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Bald Cypress’s native range is South-eastern N. America - New Jersey to Florida and Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia