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Italian cypress
Scientific Name: Cupressus sempervirens
Family: Cupressaceae
Category: Gymnosperm
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
The Italian Cypress, scientifically known as Cupressus sempervirens, is a classic evergreen conifer that evokes the landscapes of Tuscany and the Mediterranean. Its slender, columnar form makes it a popular choice for adding a touch of elegance and structure to gardens.
Common Names
- Italian Cypress
- Mediterranean Cypress
- Tuscan Cypress
- Graveyard Cypress
- Pencil Pine
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cupressus sempervirens
- Family: Cupressaceae (Implied, as it's a species of cypress)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to southern Europe and western Asia.
- Widely cultivated in Mediterranean climates and beyond.
- Especially characteristic of the Tuscan countryside in Italy.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Columnar evergreen conifer with a very narrow shape.
- Grows to approximately 40 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide without clipping.
- Rapid growth rate.
Considerations for Pets
- As a conifer, the Italian Cypress produces pollen which has been identified as an allergen (Cup s 3).
Considerations for Children
- As a conifer, the Italian Cypress produces pollen which has been identified as an allergen (Cup s 3).
Ecological Role
- Often used as privacy screens or windbreaks.
- Can serve as a formal element in gardens, defining entrances and borders.
Quirky Facts
- Wild Italian cypress trees have horizontal branches, unlike the rigidly vertical cultivated forms.
- In some cultures, the Italian Cypress is associated with the Death card in Tarot and is planted in cemeteries.
Further Information
- Monrovia: Provides details and best practices for growing Italian Cypress.
- Lowes.com: Offers Italian Cypress for purchase.