What: This selection of pond cypress (Taxodium distichum var. imbricatum ‘Nutans’) is a froth of feathery, bright green foliage arranged around an arrow-straight trunk. This unusual deciduous conifer has a slender, delicate habit that adds an air of grace to the garden. The side branches arch downward from the trunk and hold the slim, stringy, green shoots upright in orderly rows. The plant is quite adaptable at home in shallow, standing water or in ordinary garden soil. It is relatively slow growing and makes an interesting conversation piece in a large container. Pond cypresses turn golden-yellow in the fall.
Where: Although the name pond cypress suggests it requires a home with plenty of water, it grows perfectly well in average garden soil with occasional summer watering. Plant it in full sun for the best growth, but it also tolerates part shade.
Size: Reaches 15 feet high by 5 feet wide in 10 years.
Care: There are no major insect or disease problems, and this interesting tree is easy to grow. Because the branches can become quite dense, occasional thinning of weak, twiggy growth and dead wood will help keep this tree looking its best.
— greatplantpicks.org
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