Monterey Cypress
Hesperocyparis macrocarpa
Also listed as Callitropsis macrocarpa, Cupressus macrocarpa
Climate Match for your location
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A striking evergreen conifer native to coastal California with dense, feathery blue-green foliage and a naturally columnar form. Highly salt- and wind-tolerant, it thrives in coastal conditions but is sensitive to heat and humidity in inland regions.
Why grow it
Monterey cypress offers exceptional salt and wind tolerance compared to most columnar conifers, making it one of the few ornamental choices for exposed coastal sites where other evergreens struggle. Its dense, fine-textured foliage and naturally narrow form provide strong vertical interest without requiring pruning, and it establishes relatively quickly in appropriate climates. However, it performs poorly in hot, humid inland conditions where fungal diseases and stress-related decline are common, limiting its range compared to more broadly adapted columnar species.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent moisture during establishment, particularly in windier sites where root development lags behind canopy exposure. In areas outside its native coastal range, monitor for moisture stress and consider afternoon shade if planting beyond typical maritime conditions. The tree can develop dense interior foliage that may trap moisture, so occasional thinning of lower branches can improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Monterey Peninsula, California
Native to: California
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A striking evergreen conifer native to coastal California with dense, feathery blue-green foliage and a naturally columnar form. Highly salt- and wind-tolerant, it thrives in coastal conditions but is sensitive to heat and humidity in inland regions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Monterey Cypress grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Monterey cypress offers exceptional salt and wind tolerance compared to most columnar conifers, making it one of the few ornamental choices for exposed coastal sites where other evergreens struggle. Its dense, fine-textured foliage and naturally narrow form provide strong vertical interest without requiring pruning, and it establishes relatively quickly in appropriate climates. However, it performs poorly in hot, humid inland conditions where fungal diseases and stress-related decline are common, limiting its range compared to more broadly adapted columnar species.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent moisture during establishment, particularly in windier sites where root development lags behind canopy exposure. In areas outside its native coastal range, monitor for moisture stress and consider afternoon shade if planting beyond typical maritime conditions. The tree can develop dense interior foliage that may trap moisture, so occasional thinning of lower branches can improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cupressaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Monterey Peninsula, California
Native to: California
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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