Classification of different types of cypress
- Real cypress
- False cypress
- hybrid
- Bastard cypress
- Indoor cypress
The botanical name of the cypress is Cupressus, the Latin name of the false cypress is Chamaecyparis. They all belong to the species of conifers and here to the conifers. Cypresses are very long-lived trees. There are specimens that are estimated to be 400 years old.
also read
- What is the annual growth rate of a cypress tree?
- Find the right location for the cypress
- What height do cypresses reach?
False cypresses differ from real cypresses in that they have more flattened branches. The cones are also smaller than those of the real cypress.
The botanist understands hybrid cypresses to be cultivated forms that have arisen from different cypress species. An example of a hybrid cypress is the Leyland cypress, which was grown from the Monterey cypress and Nootka false cypress.
Use of cypress trees in the home and garden
Cypresses are grown in gardens as single trees or planted as a hedge. Because of their rapid growth, they form a good privacy screen. Indoor cypresses can also be grown indoors.
Many cypress species are suitable for maintenance in the bucket. Here, however, you have to pour more often. The planters must have a sufficiently large water drainage so that no waterlogging can occur.
Almost all cypress species prefer a sunny location as possible, but also grow well in partially shaded locations.
The care of the cypress species
Cypress trees need humus-rich, slightly acidic soil. The soil must always be slightly moist, whereby waterlogging must be avoided.
Fertilizing cypress trees is usually unnecessary because the trees can cope with little nutrients.
Most cypress species tolerate pruning very well. They can be easily cut into shape. However, pruning back into the old wood should be avoided as no new shoots will grow in these areas.
Cypresses are only partially hardy
Most cypress species cannot tolerate sub-zero temperatures over a long period of time. Cypress trees that are set outdoors therefore need a protected location, for example in front of a wall. Alternatively, they are protected from severe frost with mulch blankets.
The biggest problem in winter is too little moisture. Cypresses need additional water on frost-free days, even in winter.
Cypress trees are poisonous
Caution should be exercised when planting cypress trees in gardens that are home to children and pets. All cypress species are poisonous. They contain thujone as well as essential oils.
In sensitive people, contact with the sap can cause skin inflammation.
If needles, cones or shoots of the cypress are eaten, severe symptoms of intoxication can occur.
Tips
One type of cypress that can cope with very inhospitable conditions is the so-called Sahara cypress. The species found in the Tassili n'Ajjer massif in the Algerian Sahara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The population estimated at 153 to 213 is under nature protection.
