Cupressus funebris Seeds | Mourning Cypress
LATIN NAME: Cupressus funebris
COMMON NAME: Mourning Cypress
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Mourning Cypress (Cupressus funebris) is a tall, graceful, evergreen tree, native to southwestern and central China. Growth is steadily, plant forming a rounded crown that reaches 5-10 metres. Plant it in full sun with deep, fertile ground. All of this makes Mourning Cypress a satisfying plant to grow and to get to know.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Cupressus group, Cupressus funebris is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Chinese weeping cypress has a real and distinguished place in the research. Because it has been grown for so long, its garden habits are thoroughly documented.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Mourning Cypress has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, the Chinese weeping cypress is a generous tree of the garden. Its small, round, brown cones feed seed-eating birds, and its fine, dense, scale-leaved crown gives a fine cover and a shelter to birds through the year. A plant that has settled in will get along with only routine care.
Cypress gives durable scented timber and an essential oil used in aromatherapy for its clean, coniferous character; the cones appear in Mediterranean folk astringent remedies.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Mourning Cypress under ordinary good conditions. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in full sun. A spell of cool, moist conditions ahead of sowing brings the seed along nicely and supports even germination. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
A plant of southwestern and central china, it carries that landscape’s resilience into the garden. Once established, Mourning Cypress largely looks after itself. The seed responds well to a spell of cold stratification, a small step that pays off.
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