Baldcypress
Taxodium distichum
Also known as Swamp Cypress, Deciduous Cypress, Sabino Tree
Climate Match for your location
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A large deciduous conifer with fine, feathery foliage that turns russet-bronze in fall before dropping. Naturally occurs in swamps and wetlands but adapts well to landscape sites with consistent moisture.
Why grow it
Baldcypress is among the few deciduous conifers suitable for wet sites, making it valuable where moisture-tolerant alternatives are limited. Unlike most conifers, it tolerates seasonal flooding and poor drainage while offering fine texture and reliable fall color. It grows taller and faster than many native wetland shrubs, providing structure and screening in riparian zones or low-lying garden areas.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent moisture during establishment; drought stress can delay growth and reduce vigor. In poorly drained soils, allow the water table to fluctuate seasonally rather than remain constantly saturated, as prolonged waterlogging can eventually stress the root system. Branches tend toward horizontal growth and may require early pruning if a single leader or upright form is desired.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New York, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A large deciduous conifer with fine, feathery foliage that turns russet-bronze in fall before dropping. Naturally occurs in swamps and wetlands but adapts well to landscape sites with consistent moisture.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Baldcypress grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Baldcypress is among the few deciduous conifers suitable for wet sites, making it valuable where moisture-tolerant alternatives are limited. Unlike most conifers, it tolerates seasonal flooding and poor drainage while offering fine texture and reliable fall color. It grows taller and faster than many native wetland shrubs, providing structure and screening in riparian zones or low-lying garden areas.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent moisture during establishment; drought stress can delay growth and reduce vigor. In poorly drained soils, allow the water table to fluctuate seasonally rather than remain constantly saturated, as prolonged waterlogging can eventually stress the root system. Branches tend toward horizontal growth and may require early pruning if a single leader or upright form is desired.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New York, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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