This coniferous tree has fibrous grey-brown bark that peels in small strips and forms a fastigiate habit in warm areas and pyramidal habit in cooler areas. The twisted ascending branches have dark green scale-like leaves in flat sprays.

Hardiness zones 8 to 10

Cupressus torulosa is naturally found in the Himalayas growing in moderately fertile well-drained soils in moist environments. It prefers an open sunny position and is drought and frost resistant.

The Bhutan Cypress is a large conifer that is grown for its habit. It is planted in parks and large gardens as a specimen tree or along borders as a tall screen or trim to form a tall hedge. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is vigorous in the first few years, slowing towards maturity. It is also grown for its fragrant timber that is exceptionally durable and the smaller cultivars are grown in containers or in small gardens. ID 210

Cupressus (kew-PRES-us) torulosa (tor-U-low-sa)

‘Cupressus’: from Greek kuo + parisos - produce equally (refers to the symmetrical habit of the Italian Cypress. In Greek mythology, Apollo turned Kypressos into an evergreen tree); ‘torulosa’: swollen (refers to the swollen cold-climate habit).

Cupressaceae (kew-press-AY-see-ee)
Coniferous Trees