Monterey cypress
Cupressus macrocarpa
Goldcrest
About this plant
Cupressus macrocarpa, commonly called Monterey cypress, is a large evergreen tree known for its dense, dark green foliage and distinctive, aromatic wood. It is native to the central coast of California and is often used as a windbreak or ornamental tree in parks and gardens. Its unique, sculptural form and tolerance to coastal conditions make it popular in landscaping.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cupressus
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Pinales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- California, USA
- Distribution
- Native to the central coast of California, widely cultivated in coastal regions worldwide including parts of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 10-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system. Once established, it is drought tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive, weak growth.
Monterey cypress is a hardy tree that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It tolerates drought once established but does not like waterlogged conditions. It requires occasional pruning to maintain shape and prevent overcrowding. Generally, it is low maintenance but needs space to grow.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Dense, dark green foliage with a fine texture and a distinctive, conical to irregular shape. The tree has aromatic wood and produces small, woody cones.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, but avoid ingestion of any plant parts.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Cupressus macrocarpa, also known as Monterey cypress, can produce pollen that may cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. Those with pollen allergies might experience sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes during its pollen season. To reduce exposure, avoid being near the tree when it is releasing pollen and keep windows closed during high pollen times.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. It may also suffer from needle blight or scale insects if air circulation is poor or if stressed by drought.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens, as well as for windbreaks and coastal landscaping due to its salt tolerance.
Notes
Prune lightly after the growing season to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood as it may not regrow. Best planted in open spaces due to its large size and spreading habit.