Swamp cypress: Characteristics, use & symbolism

Swamp cypress, also known as taxodium distichum or bald cypress, is known to thrive under many conditions, and has an intriguing symbolism.

Swamp cypress

Although swamp cypress' scientific name is Taxodium distichum, it does not belong to the classic cypress family, as one might think, but to the taxodiaceae family, which includes the redwoods and cryptomeria. Originating from the south-west of the United States, it is the tree emblem of this American state Lousiana. The tree was introduced to Europe in 1640 by John Tradescent, the gardener to Charles I, King of England. Swamp cypress easily sets down roots in damp, marshy, and flooded areas. It thrives in peat bogs and at the edges of marshes.

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Why EcoTree plants swap cypress

At EcoTree, we plant swamp cypress due to the multiple ecological benefits that the tree brings to our forests. They have a very extensive root system which helps to slow down the erosion of flood-prone areas. As they require a lot of water, they also play a very important filtration role. Finally, swamp cypress is a perfect species to diversify our forests, and the quality and properties of its timber makes it ideal for various uses.

Swamp cypress - Overview

Swamp cypress is a decidious tree, meaning that it looses its foliage during autumn. This large and wind-resistant tree can reach 30-50 meters in height, with a trunk that has a two meters diameter. It usually lives to be between 300 and 500 years old, but specimens found in North Carolina are estimated to be over two thousand years old.

Its foliage is light and supple. The pale leaves are flattened and acicular, arranged in spirals on the twigs but twisted at tip of the branch, making them appear to be arranged in two flattened rows. The leaves are 1-1.6 cm long and a few millimeters wide. The bark of swamp cypress is fibrous and appear with longitudinally cracks. Tiny flowers appear in autumn, at the tip of the branch, and turn into fruits that look like scaly balls, the following spring.

Perfectly adapted to its environment, swamp cypress has developed special aerial roots known as pneumatophores. They emerge from the soil or water all around the trunk, absorbing oxygen to the submerged root system, which would otherwise be at risk of anoxia. Pneumatophores also help to stabilise and anchor the tree in the soil, which is necessary as it is often soaked with water. The aerial roots can grow as big as the size of a human.

Swamp cypress - Species requirements

The swamp cypress thrives best in damp soil, such as along ponds or streams, but is able to thrive and grow in virtually any environments. It requires a lot of space because of its large and long branches and aerial roots. Swamp cypress is best planted in autumn, as it requires moist soil to develop its roots.

Timber from swamp cypress

The wood from swamp cypress has a quality comparable to that of Scots Pine, and is renowned for the oil it contains. Because insect pests and diseases do not affect this species, its wood is highly sought after. It is used for construction, furniture and parquetry, as the timber is very hard-wearing.

Symbolism of the swamp cypress

The swamp cypress symbolises resilience for the strength of its wood, ability to adapt to extremely humid environments and strong winds, as well as its ability to protect weaker trees surrounding it. This makes swamp cypress the ideal gift for resilient people in your life and those that always goes the extra mile for everyone.

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