Facts About The Cypress Plant
The cypress plant is a conifer tree or shrub, noted for its somewhat feathery foliage. There are many species of cypress plants, a number of which go under other names, such as sequoia, redwoods, and the juniper shrub. Most cypress plants tend to be very long-lived.
Because of the large number of species making up the cypress plant family, it is a bit difficult to identify exactly what the growing conditions should be. Some cypress plants thrive in sandy soils, while others prefer rich loam. Some do best in acidic soil, while other will perform well only when growing in alkaline soil. Some grow quickly, and are ideal for hedges or shade trees, while other species are very slow growing. About the only thing the cypress plants have in common is that they require full sunlight and normally do not grow well in shade.
One can plant a cypress tree or shrub and basically leave it alone, a practice often followed in landscaping riparian areas. The typical cypress plant takes well to pruning however, and many species are excellent for topiary or bonsai usage. The ability of the cypress plant to withstand severe pruning also makes it a good candidate for formal landscape applications.
Italian Cypress - Speaking of formal landscaping, a favorite plant is the Italian cypress tree. These are the tall, slender trees often found in parks and memorial gardens, and the sight of which can make any Italian quite homesick. Whereas the typical cypress plant usually does quite well on its own once established, the Italian cypress tree is a plant that requires a good deal of care. This is one tree that not only benefits from a regular application of fertilizer, but practically demands it. The Italian cypress also requires regular watering, although the foliage needs to be kept dry as much as possible, as the plant is susceptible to fungus infestations during wet seasons and may require occasional applications of a fungicide. The Italian cypress does respond well to occasional pruning.
Dwarf Cypress - Another variety of cypress plant is the dwarf cypress, sometimes called the false cypress. Of all the species of dwarf cypress plants available, the Dwarf Hinoki cypress is one of the better known species and is a great favorite with gardeners and landscapers. Like most cypress plants, the Dwarf Hinoki prefers full sun, but can also tolerate more shade than most other cypress species can. In fact, some varieties of this dwarf cypress plant are best protected from hot overhead sun to keep from being scorched. The Dwarf Hinoki is a slow growing cypress plant, growing at most 3 inches a year.
Pygmy Cypress - The Pygmy Hinoki cypress, is in reality the same as the dwarf species of the same name, but is called a pygmy cypress plant in the bonsai trade. This little plant, if left untended, will grow into a somewhat conical shape and as such is a beautiful small bush, but it is prized for its ability to respond to the pruning required to make it an attractive bonsai plant. It is usually potted in a somewhat porous soil as it is necessary that the soil be fast draining. The pot or container this cypress plant is grown in is purposely kept small so the soil won't retain too much moisture. Pruning this cypress plant is also somewhat of a challenge. If not done correctly, new foliage may cease to appear and sections of the plant may die. If you know what you're doing, this cypress plant can be a lot of fun to grow, in spite of the fact that it is in some respects rather high maintenance.
One thing is certain. The cypress plant provides a tremendous variety of choices.