Red Cypress (Bald Cypress) Facts: The Swamp Giant

Overview

The red cypress (Taxodium distichum), also called Gulf, bald, southern, swamp, white, or yellow cypress, is a flowering tree in the redwood family native to Texas. It's the first Texas tree to lose leaves in fall—hence "bald cypress."

Description

Tall, conical canopy reaching 120–150 feet, 12 feet wide. Soft, feathery, pine-like needles (light green above, white below). Extensive roots create distinctive "knees" projecting above soil. Produces cones and flowers.

Life Cycle

First to drop leaves in fall, last to bloom in spring. Buds appear post-Christmas; bloom late March/April. Extremely hardy—commonly 600 years, some exceed 1,200 years.

Adaptability

Thrives in rich or poor clay soils. Wild along waterways (prefers wet), but tolerates moderate water in urban settings. Needs full sun (≥8 hours daily).

Range

USDA Zones 4–10. Primarily Texas and eastern states.

Uses

Decay-resistant hardwood for docks, boats, bridges. Seminoles used it for canoes, houses, ceremonial objects.