The History and Lore of Cypress Trees

Overview

The cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) is legendary—living 2,000+ years and steeped in history. A massive cypress in Soma, Lombardy, may date to Christ's birth (or ~40 years prior).

Supernatural Associations

Synonymous with Tuscany (though not native), cypress likely arrived with Etruscan tribes who revered its evergreen nature as supernatural. A fatal canker recently devastated populations, but the 'Bolgheri' variety shows resistance.

Florida's Ancient Cypress

Geological evidence shows cypress in SW Florida >5,000 years; far north >6,500 years. 1900s railroad expansion accelerated logging. Early 20th century saw most large bald cypress felled in Florida swamps.

Louisiana's State Tree

Bald cypress became Louisiana's official state tree in 1963, prevalent in its swamps.

The Lightning Tree

Big Cypress Tree State Park (TN) once held the largest U.S. bald cypress: 13-foot diameter, 40-foot circumference, 1,350 years old—killed by lightning in 1976. The park remains a nature destination with an annual fall festival.

Name Origins

Likely from Persia, Syria, or Cyprus. Name may derive from Cyprus (uncertain). Surname "Cypress" comes from German "zypress"—someone living near a cypress or in a house marked by one.