Italian Cypress

Cupressus sempervirens

Physical Characteristics

Cupressus sempervirens is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 5 m (16ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from January to February. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. Europe to W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antipyretic Antirheumatic Antiseptic Aromatherapy Astringent Balsamic Vasoconstrictor Vulnerary The cones and young branches are anthelmintic, antipyretic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, astringent, balsamic and vasoconstrictive[7, 46, 240]. They are harvested in late winter and early spring, then dried for later use[7]. Taken internally, it is used in the treatment of whooping cough, the spitting up of blood, spasmodic coughs, colds, flu and sore throats[254]. Applied externally as a lotion or as a diluted essential oil (using an oil such as almond), it astringes varicose veins and haemorrhoids, tightening up the blood vessels[254]. A foot bath of the cones is used to cleanse the feet and counter excessive sweating[254]. The extracted essential oil should not be taken internally without professional guidance[254]. A resin is obtained from the tree by making incisions in the trunk[7]. This has a vulnerary action on slow-healing wounds and also encourages whitlows to come to a head[7]. An essential oil from the leaves and cones is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is 'Astringent'[210].

Known Hazards

Poisonous[76]. No more details.