WHAT: This variety of pond cypress produces a froth of feathery, bright green foliage arranged around an arrow-straight trunk.
It is an unusual deciduous conifer with a slender, delicate growth habit that adds an air of grace to the garden.
Its short side branches arch downward from its trunk and hold slim, stringy, green shoots upright in orderly rows. As the tree matures, the trunk develops a wide-flaring base.
WHY PLANT IT: Although the name pond cypress suggests the tree requires an abundance of water, it grows perfectly well in average garden soil with occasional summer watering.
It is also happy in shallow, standing water.
Also known as taxodium distichum var. imbricatum nutans, it is relatively slow growing and makes an interesting conversation piece in a large container. It turns golden-yellow in the fall.
WHERE: Plant it in full sun for the best growth. It also tolerates part shade.
It has no major insect or disease problems, and is easy to grow.
HOW: Because the branches can become quite dense, occasional thinning of weak, twiggy growth and dead wood will help keep this tree looking its best.
ACTUAL SIZE: This pond cypress grows to about 15 feet tall and 5 feet wide in 10 years. Mature specimens can reach 30 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
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