Swamp Cypress, Bald cypress, Common Bald Cypress

Taxodium distichum

Physical Characteristics

Taxodium distichum is a deciduous Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in October. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - New Jersey to Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic The resin in the cones is used as an analgesic for wounds[149, 227].

Known Hazards

None known