Description

The Monterey Cypress is a dramatic, wind-sculpted native of the California coast, famous for its gnarled, spreading form and refreshing lemon-scented foliage. In coastal conditions, it develops a picturesque, broad-crowned silhouette. Inland, it grows as a more formal, large pyramidal tree. Fast-growing and exceptionally tolerant of wind and salt spray, it’s a majestic specimen for large coastal properties or parks, but its size and specific disease susceptibility (to cypress canker) require careful consideration.

• A large, fast-growing conifer with two distinct forms: wind-sculpted and broad on the coast, tall and pyramidal inland.

• Foliage is dense, dark green, and emits a strong lemon scent when crushed.

• Highly tolerant of coastal winds, salt spray, and sandy soils.

• Very susceptible to cypress canker when planted away from its cool, foggy native habitat, especially in hot, humid summers.

• Develops attractive, furrowed bark with age.

• Best used as a specimen tree in large coastal landscapes or for windbreaks where it is adapted.