Swamp Cypress Data Sheet

• Common name: Swamp Cypress

• Latin name: Taxodium Distichum

• Genus: Cupressaceae

• Height: 35 m (114 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 4–10

• Conservation status: Least concern

Taxodium distichum, commonly known as the Swamp cypress, is a conifer native to southern United States. Its range extends across lowland areas of the Gulf coast including Florida.

This tree is generally found at low altitudes, mostly from sea level to 200 m (655 ft). The trunk diameter can reach 2 m. The bark is thin with a grey and brown colour. The needles are 2 cm long, light green and arranged flat across the branch. This tree sheds its needles in winter. The cones are spherical and 4 cm in diameter, they start green when young, maturing to brown.

The Swamp cypress is a medium to large deciduous conifer, reaching a height of 35 m (114 ft).

It can live up to 1,600 years.

The Swamp Cypress is closely related to the Pond cypress, which shares many of its characteristics.

This species makes a good ornamental specimen with its feather like foliage. It has been used for timber production, the wood is odorless.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. Fill trays or pots with quality compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 25 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Due to the hard-shelled nature of these seeds the compost should kept soaking wet at all times, yes, soaking wet! Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 4–6 weeks.

Post Germination

Once seedlings appear, keep them in a bright, well-ventilated area to avoid damping off disease. Reduce the waterlogged state used during germination to a moist state. Ensure seedlings never dry out. Water logging should also be avoided; young trees hate wet feet. These seedlings are large and sturdy and will give you little hassle. They can be separated into their own 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruce. Mice take seeds and seedlings.

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