Cupressus macrocarpa Seeds | Monterey Cypress
LATIN NAME: Cupressus macrocarpa
COMMON NAME: Monterey Cypress
Plant Profile
Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) is a tree. The Monterey cypress is a wind-sculpted evergreen of the Pacific coast, its broad, flat-topped crown and gnarled, spreading branches giving it a dramatic, windswept silhouette that is iconic of the California shoreline. In cultivation it is often seen as a tall, columnar tree with dense, dark-green, scale-like foliage, but in its native habitat, where it is battered by ocean winds, it takes on a picturesque, irregular form. Small, round, grey-brown cones stay on tree for years, opening to release winged seeds after fire or hot weather, and foliage carries a pleasant, lemony scent when crushed. While it flowers, it feeds a quiet procession of bees and hoverflies. Each of these traits is modest on its own; together they make a garden-worthy plant.
Science & Biotechnology
Seed science, comparative botany and horticultural selection all touch on Cupressus macrocarpa, a representative of the Cupressus group with clear practical value. The Monterey cypress has a real and distinguished place in the research. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Monterey Cypress earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. Ecologically, the Monterey cypress is a generous tree of the garden. Its small, round, grey-brown cones feed seed-eating birds, and its fine, dense, evergreen foliage gives a fine cover and a shelter to birds through year, while its wind-hardy form gives a fine shelter to coast and the garden. After the first season it asks for very little beyond a place that suits it.
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
Raising Monterey Cypress from seed is straightforward. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray full sun. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Its role in herbal practice, noted above, adds depth to an already garden-worthy plant. Monterey Cypress has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. After establishment, care settles into an easy routine.
Related Reading
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