No images found for this plant ID: 12853.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "12853" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
Paiute cypress
Scientific Name: Cupressus arizonica ssp. nevadensis
Family: Cupressaceae
Category: Gymnosperm
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Paiute Cypress
The Paiute Cypress, also known as Piute Cypress, is a majestic tree with intriguing characteristics and a fascinating ecological role.
Scientific Name and Classification
- Accepted Scientific Name: Hesperocyparis nevadensis (formerly Cupressus nevadensis)
- Common Name: Paiute Cypress, Piute Cypress
- Synonyms: Cupressus arizonica var. nevadensis, Callitropsis nevadensis, Cupressus arizonica ssp. nevadensis, Callitropsis arizonica var
- Family: Cupressaceae (Cypress family)
- Kingdom: (Implied: Plantae - Based on description as a tree)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species (and subspecies/variety)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to a small area within the USA.
- Specifically found in California, Kern County.
- Grows in the drainage of Bodfish Creek and on Red Hill in the Paiute Mountains.
- Prefers elevations around 4000 feet.
Ecological Role
- Heavily reliant on wildfires for reproduction. This serotinous characteristic means its cones require the heat of fire to release their seeds.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Tree: Typically grows to a size of 30-50+ ft tall and 20-30 ft wide.
- Duration: Perennial.
Quirky Facts
- Decoction of dried seeds taken by Kawaiisu Drug (Analgesic).
Considerations for Pets
- As with many Cypress, this species is heavily reliant on wildfires for reproduction
Further Information
- Flickr Hive Mind: http://flickrhivemind.net/Tags/cypress,paiute