Feature Tree – May 2004

Arizona Cypress

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Arizona Cypress, Cupressus arizonica (Cupressaceae family)  

Arizona cypress is a native conifer of the southwestern states growing from Texas westward to California.  It grows in association with many shrub, oak, juniper, pine and pinyon species in the canyons and mountains of this region.  Several of these associated species like Douglas-fir, oneseed juniper, quail bush sumac and Fendler bush are found in Colorado’s mountains.   

Habit:  Columnar pyramidal growth habit with dense foliage. Tree could grow to a height of 50 feet with a corresponding width of 10 to 20 feet in the urban forest.  In its native range it can grow up to a height of 70 feet. 

Hardiness:  Zone 5 to 7.  It is recommended for some of the warmer parts of Utah and Colorado.  It is generally found at elevations of 3,000 to 8,000 feet within its native range. 

Leaves/Needles: Attractive scale like foliage resembles that of the juniper.   Color can vary from dull green to a silver blue.    

Twigs:  Have a nearly right angled arrangement on the branch. 

Bark:  Young trees have long thin irregular scales that flake off.  As bark flakes off it will reveal a cherry-red color.  As tree matures the bark is slightly furrowed. 

Fruit:  Cones are found in clusters usually around ¾ to 1 inch in diameter.  The seed is dispersed as the persistent cones desiccate on the tree.  Seed requires bare mineral soil for germination.  

Landscape Value:  Tree is suitable for either acidic or alkaline soils.  Specimens have been growing in Boulder, Denver and Grand Junction for at least ten years and appear to be thriving.  A few Colorado nurseries have begun carrying this tree after locating seed sources from cold hardy sites within its native range.  Tree is grown commercially for Christmas trees. 

Diseases/Insects:  Pests have not been observed on Colorado planted material.  In the native habitat pests include mistletoe, rusts and defoliating insects. 

Information Sources: 

            USDA Forest Service – Fire Effects Information System Database
            http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis

            The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Trees – Western
            Region, Elbert L. Little