Monterey Cypress Data Sheet

• Common name: Monterey cypress

• Latin name: Cupressus macrocarpa

• Genus: Cupressus

• Height: 40 m (131 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 7–9

• Conservation status: Vulnerable

Cupressus macrocarpa, commonly known as the Monterey Cypress, is a conifer native to western United states. Its range extends across the costal areas of California.

This tree is generally found at low altitudes, mostly from sea level to 250 m (820 ft).

The Monterey cypress is a medium to large evergreen tree, reaching a height of 40 m (131 ft). The trunk diameter can exceed 2.5 m. Young saplings have needles which change to scaled leaves on more mature trees. leaf colour is a bright green and they give off a citrus like scent. The cones are spherical, 4 cm in diameter and take 2 years to ripen. Young cones are green, turning brown when ripe.

It can live up to 300 years.

The Monterey cypress is closely related to the highly controversial Leyland cypress, which shares many of its characteristics.

This species makes an excellent landscape tree and windbreak. The growth rate is less aggressive than its Leyland cypress cousin.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. Fill trays or pots with quality compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 25 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Keep compost damp, never soaking wet or dried out. Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks.

Post Germination

Once seedlings appear, keep them in a bright, well-ventilated area to avoid damping off disease. Ensure seedlings never dry out. Water logging should also be avoided; young trees hate wet feet. These seedlings are fairly large and sturdy and will give you little hassle. They can be separated into their own 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruce.

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