2 named cultivars

treeN. America Native

Monterey Cypress

$73.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Cupressus macrocarpa is a massive evergreen conifer native to a highly restricted coastal range in Monterey, California, where it develops a broad, flat-topped crown and heavy horizontal branches with age. The scale-like adult foliage is bright green and emits a distinct lemon aroma when crushed, while the inconspicuous spring flowers develop into globose woody cones.

This species is exceptionally tolerant of heavy sea spray and maritime winds, making it a primary choice for coastal windbreaks and stabilizing shorelines. Young trees display soft, needle-like juvenile foliage that gradually transitions to the tightly appressed adult scales as the plant matures.

Uses & Benefits:

Develops a dramatic, wind-sculpted silhouette and broad crown that serves as a striking focal point in coastal landscapes.

Functions as an exceptionally wind-resistant barrier and salt-tolerant windbreak for coastal properties.

Provides critical nesting sites, thermal cover, and roosting habitat for native birds and small mammals.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

984"

Width

787"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long

Native To

California

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to humans (skin irritant)

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$73.95

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with excellent drainage, as this species is highly intolerant of waterlogged soils.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the soil is loose to encourage deep rooting.
Position the tree so the root flare sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent collar rot.
Backfill with native soil without adding soil amendments, and water deeply to settle the ground around the roots.
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it several inches away from the trunk to avoid moisture retention against the bark.

Pro Tip

Never shear or prune back into the inner brown, leafless wood, as this species lacks latent buds on old timber and will leave permanent dead patches.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently during the first two growing seasons to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
Prune lightly during dry weather to shape the canopy or remove dead wood, sterilizing tools between cuts.
Ensure the planting site has excellent air circulation to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, bare wood, as the tree cannot regenerate foliage from old timber.
Do not overwater or plant in heavy, poorly drained clay soils that retain standing water.
Do not apply heavy applications of fertilizer, as rapid, forced growth increases susceptibility to canker diseases.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

WindbreakCoastal GardenSpecimen TreeScreening

Companion Plants

Pinus radiata Artemisia californica Ceanothus thyrsiflorus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Monterey Cypress questions

What zones can Monterey Cypress grow in?

Monterey Cypress is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Monterey Cypress deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Monterey Cypress, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Monterey Cypress bloom?

Monterey Cypress typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Monterey Cypress need full sun?

Monterey Cypress does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Monterey Cypress drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Monterey Cypress handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.