Taxodium distichum (Swamp Cypress)

Taxodium distichum (Swamp Cypress) Details

Commonly known as the Swamp Cypress, this conifer grows as an upright tree to about 30 m tall and 8 m wide. It is somewhat unusual in that it is deciduous whereas most conifers tend to be evergreen. Feathery leaves emerge light green in spring, age to become bronze-yellow in summer, then develop bronze tones in autumn before falling. The mangrove-like, aerial roots are an interesting feature of this plant which enable it to survive in swamp conditions. It does, however, prefer to grow on well-drained sites that do not dry out and in a full sun position. It also tolerates wind, frost, and cool climates. The Swamp Cypress is a great tree for planting in wetter areas of a large garden and for planting around water features.