Cupressus arizonica
Description: The Arizona Cypress is a medium-sized tree that typically reaches heights of 50 to 60 feet, with a diameter ranging from 15 to 30 feet. It is characterized by its dense, upright, cone-shaped crown, which adds a distinctive silhouette to the landscape.
Bark/Twig: The bark is smooth and reddish-brown, often developing a fibrous texture with flat ridges as the tree matures. This bark contributes to the tree’s overall aesthetic appeal and provides a degree of protection against environmental stressors.
Leaves: The leaves of this species are scale-like and exhibit colors that range from grayish-green to bluish-green or silvery. They are arranged opposite in pairs and tightly clasp the cord-like or four-sided twigs. In the fall, the foliage takes on a striking blue hue, enhancing the tree’s ornamental value.
Flower/Fruit: The cones are approximately 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter, exhibiting a somewhat rounded shape. They are dark reddish-brown and feature 6 to 8 shield-shaped woody scales. These cones mature in the autumn of their second season and can persist on the tree for many years.
Habitat: Arizona Cypress requires a minimum of 10 to 12 inches of water annually for optimal growth. It thrives in full sunlight, which is essential for its best development. Although the tree grows slowly under natural dry conditions, it can achieve rapid growth rates of up to 3 feet per year in better soils with a good moisture regime.