This coniferous tree has a trunk that may be divided with irregular fissured bark and forms a broad conical to narrow columnar habit with a flattened apex. It has scale-like dark green leaves and the female cones appear during spring.

Hardiness zones 7 to 10

Cupressus macrocarpa is naturally found in North America growing on the Monterey peninsula in California. It prefers a well drained fertile moist soil including limestone based types in a sunny wind protected position and tolerates frost, salt laden wind and drought.

The Monterey Cypress is grown for its habit and foliage and is planted along borders for screening or used as a lawn specimen. It is suitable for coastal or inland regions and establishes in 3 to 5 years. The cultivars of this plant are commonly seen and generally grow vigorously, if not disturbed. They may be trimmed to form a hedge or used in formal or conifer gardens. ID 363

Cupressus (kew-PRES-us) macrocarpa (măk-rõ-KAR-pa)

‘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). ‘macrocarpa’: large fruit (this species produces large cones).

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