Deciduous Tree – Pond Cypress

Pond Cypress 

Botanical name: taxodium distichum var. Imbricarium 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 70-80 ft in height with a spread of 15-20 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 5-10 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Foliage color: green/orange/brown 

Flower color: green 

Bloom time:  spring 

Pruning instructions: prune in the late winter/early before new growth begins to emerge to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: flood-prone areas, rain gardens, along water features

Special features: flood tolerant, shade tolerant, clay tolerant, adaptable to poor soil

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: keep the top inch of soil consistently wet 

Fertilizing instructions : use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, summer, fall 

Best type of soil:  loam, sand 

Companion plants: swamp milkweed, shreve’s Iris, marah marigold 

Toxicity level: mildly toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no