Taxodium distichum

Taxodium distichum (Swamp Cypress / Bald Cypress) is a majestic deciduous conifer native to the southeastern United States. This slow-growing tree reaches impressive heights of 10 to 40 meters (30 to 130 feet), with a distinctive pyramidal shape that becomes more open and spreading with age. Its soft, feathery, bright green needle-like leaves turn beautiful shades of copper and russet in autumn before shedding for winter.

Ideal for wet or swampy areas, Taxodium thrives in moist, acidic, well-drained soils but is remarkably adaptable to a wide range of soil types and conditions. It is excellent for planting near ponds, streams, or in rain gardens where its "knees" (woody root projections) not only aid oxygen exchange but also create distinctive landscape interest. Its bark is fibrous, reddish-brown, and peels in vertical strips, adding an appealing textured appearance.

Key Features:

• Deciduous conifer with pyramidal growth habit, becoming more spreading with age
• Height: 10–40 m (30–130 feet); Spread: 6–9 m (20–30 feet)
• Feathery, needle-like foliage turns coppery-orange in autumn
• Thrives in full sun to partial shade
• Prefers moist, acidic soils; tolerates wet, swampy conditions
• Develops characteristic \"cypress knees\" in wet soils
• Adaptable to a variety of soil moisture and types
• Excellent for ponds, wetland gardens, and large landscapes
• Hardy in USDA zones 4–9
• Low maintenance with good pest and disease resistance

Plant Taxodium distichum to add stately height, graceful foliage, and seasonal colour to water-edge landscapes or large gardens requiring bold, wet-site tolerant trees.