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    Monterey Cypress

    Cupressus macrocarpa

    Monterey Cypress Tree Coastal Landscape Setting
    Monterey Cypress Tree 25 Gallon Container Size
    Monterey Cypress Tree Size Comparison 5 Gallon & 15 Gallon
    Monterey Cypress Foliage
    Monterey Cypress Mature California Coastal Park Location
    Monterey Cypress Mature Tree California Coastal Location

    Orders over $399 are delivered for free! All others have a flat rate delivery fee of $40.

    Monterey Cypress

    Monterey Cypress

    Cupressus macrocarpa

    $54.95
    $54.95
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    Out of Stock

    Currently, we only deliver within California. If your order will be delivered to that state, please change your Growing Zone above or in the menu.
    Plant Type
    Tree
    Seasonality
    Evergreen
    Mature height
    40-80 ft.
    Mature Width
    30-40 ft.
    Sun exposure
    Full Sun
    Watering
    Low
    Growth Rate
    Fast
    Grows Well in Zones
    8, 9, 10
    Attracts Wildlife
    Birds, Butterflies
    Characteristics
    California Native, Drought Tolerant, Deer Resistant
    Special uses
    Hedge
    View full details
    Description

    Native to the central coast of California, the Monterey Cypress is a picturesque evergreen tree that thrives in windy, coastal climates and has a sculpted, windswept appearance. With its dense, dark green, fragrant foliage, attractive furrowed trunk and broad spreading branches, this stunning tree makes a bold statement in the landscape, providing valuable shade and wind protection, and is well-suited for shearing into a hedge.

    Cupressus macrocarpa, also known as Hesperocyparis macrocarpa, is a fast-growing native conifer reaching heights of 40 ft. or greater, with 1-inch round cones that are shiny green at first then mature to brown. Young trees have a pyramidal shape and reddish brown bark, both of which change with age. Long-lived in windy, cool, humid, and foggy conditions similar to those of the Monterey Peninsula, this cypress can grow further inland with additional water and extra care. Popular in seaside gardens and as a habitat for the Monarch butterfly and local wildlife, the Monterey Cypress is an impressive and resilient species, growing approximately 3-4 ft./year under optimal conditions.

    Plant Care

    Planting - Monterey Cypress performs best when planted in coastal gardens with full sun, receiving 6 or more hours of direct sunlight, and in well-draining soil.

    Watering - Water deeply and regularly during the first few growing seasons to develop an extensive root system. Reduce frequency once established and water as needed.
    In hotter, arid inland climates, additional irrigation may be required, and a weekly foliage wash with the hose may be beneficial.

    Pruning - Relatively low-maintenance, the Monterey Cypress tree does not require annual pruning or fertilization. If growing as a hedge, prune to shape during early spring when it is actively growing.

    Winter Hardiness - Hardy to 10-15°F and best suited for USDA zones 8-10, the Monterey Cypress can grow outside of these zones with extra care, but it generally prefers milder climates and cool summers.

    Spacing Guide

    Monterey Cypress is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that is often used for windbreaks, privacy screens, and ornamental landscaping. Proper spacing is crucial for ensuring healthy growth and allowing the tree to reach its full potential.

    For a Privacy Hedge or Screen:

    • Recommended Spacing: 5 to 6 feet apart
      • Planting trees 5 feet apart creates a dense, thick screen more quickly.

    For Windbreaks:

    • Recommended Spacing: 10 to 12 feet apart
      • This spacing allows the trees to develop a wide spread while maintaining their effectiveness as a wind barrier.

    For Stand-Alone Trees or Ornamental Planting:

    • Recommended Spacing: 15 to 30 feet apart
      • Monterey Cypress can grow large, reaching 40 to 80 feet tall with a 30 to 40-foot wide spread, so this spacing allows the tree to reach its full natural shape without overcrowding.

    Distance from Structures:

    • Recommended Distance: 20 to 30 feet from buildings or other structures.
      • Monterey Cypress has a broad root system and wide canopy spread, so it's important to plant at least 20 feet away from walls, foundations, or underground utilities to avoid root damage or interference.

    Double Row Planting for Dense Windbreaks:

    • Staggered Row Spacing: If planting a double row for a denser windbreak or screen, space the rows 10 to 12 feet apart, with trees spaced 6 to 8 feet within each row.

    Root and Canopy Spread Considerations:

    • Monterey Cypress has an extensive root system, so it is important to keep adequate spacing between trees to avoid competition for water and nutrients.
    • Its broad canopy spread means it needs sufficient room to grow laterally, especially when used as individual trees or in ornamental plantings.

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