Maintenance Landscaping Design

Cupressus arizonica is a species of conifer in the cypress family. The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northwest Mexico, where it grows in mountain habitats. The arizona cypress is a medium-sized tree, growing to 20–30 m (66–98 ft) tall and with a trunk diameter of up to 1 m (3 ft). The leaves are scale-like, 2–4 mm (0.079–0.157 in) long and 1–2 mm (0.039–0.079 in) broad. The cones are globose, 8–12 mm (0.31–0.47 in) diameter, with 8-12 scales arranged in opposite pairs; they are blue-grey at first, maturing dark brown.

Also called

• Juniper
  
• Cypress
  
• Arborvitae
  
• Redwood
  
• Cedar

Good to Know

• Cupressus arizonica is a species of cypress native to Arizona in the southwestern United States.
  
• The tree is commonly known as Arizona cypress, Rocky Mountain cypress, or guajillo.
  
• It is an evergreen coniferous tree growing to 20–40 m (66–131 ft) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 5 m (9 ft).
  
• The leaves are scale-like, 2–4 mm (0.079–0.157 in) long, and arranged in decussate whorls of 4–
  
• The cone scales are 6–12 mm (0.24–0.47 in) long, with an involucre of three to six scales.
  
• The male cones are 3–4 mm (0.12–0.16 in) long, and shed their pollen in early spring.
  
• The female cones are larger, 6–12 mm (0.24–0.47 in) long, maturing in late summer or early fall about 18 months after pollination.
  
• Cupressus arizonica is a valuable timber tree, and is used in the manufacture of guitars and other musical instruments.
  
• The wood is also used for fence posts, furniture, and cabinetry.
  
• The tree is also planted as an ornamental, and was introduced to Europe in 183

How to Grow

1. For cupressus arizonica, first step is to obtain a young plant or cutting from a mature tree.
   
2. Plant the young tree or cutting in well-draining soil in a location that receives full sun.
   
3. Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
   
4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
   
5. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape.
   
6. Cupressus arizonica is generally pest and disease free.
   
7. Enjoy your beautiful cupressus arizonica for many years to come!

Related plant:
Cupressus Lusitanica

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Cupressus Arizonica prefers deep, sandy, well-drained soils, but it is not terribly picky about soil type as long as it is not poorly drained. This species is tolerant of drought, but it will do best with regular irrigation in hot, dry climates. It is also tolerant of salt spray, so it can be used as a coastal windbreak.

Light requirement

So, like the other Cupressus trees, Cupressus arizonica requires full sun to grow well. It is a drought tolerant tree once established, and can tolerate wind and heat. While it is not picky about soil, it grows best in well-drained soil. This tough tree has few pests or diseases and can live for hundreds of years.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for cupressus arizonica is one that is cool and not too hot. This tree is native to Arizona and prefers a climate that is not too hot or too cold. It can tolerate some drought, but prefers a moderate amount of moisture. The ideal temperature range for this tree is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40% to 50%. This plant comes from the deserts of Arizona and Mexico and is used to hot, dry conditions. It will do best in an area of your home that has similar humidity levels. If the air in your home is too dry, the leaves of this plant will start to turn brown and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this type of plant does not need a lot. In fact, too much fertilizer can actually harm the cupressus arizonica. The roots of the plant are also relatively shallow, so be careful not to over-water.

Plant Pruning

Pruning cupressus arizonica is essential to maintain its desirable shape and size. This species responds well to pruning, so don't be afraid to trim it back as needed. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Prune in early spring, before new growth begins.

About Propagating

Propagation of Cupressus arizonica is typically done through seed. The tree does not produce many cones, so collecting and planting the seeds is the best way to ensure more trees. The seeds should be planted in the fall in an area with well-draining soil. Once the trees have germinated and are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate during the establishment year, with an average of 24 to 36 inches (60 to 91 cm). The tallest trees may reach 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 m), but are more typically found 30 to 40 feet (9 to 12 m) in height. The growth rate of these trees is moderate to rapid.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root and stem rots, canker, and shoot blight. The root and stem rots can be caused by several different fungi, including Phytophthora and Pythium species. These problems are most often seen in plants that are stressed by drought or overwatering. Canker is another common problem, and is caused by fungi such as Botryosphaeria and Nectria species. Shoot blight is often caused by the fungus Sphaeropsis sapinea.

List to Know

• Make sure to provide good drainage for your cupressus arizonica plant.
  
• It is best to plant your cupressus arizonica in an area that receives full sun.
  
• Provide regular watering for your plant, making sure to not over-water.
  
• Fertilize your plant regularly using a cupressus arizonica fertilizer.
  
• Prune your plant regularly to maintain its shape and size.
  
• Cupressus arizonica is susceptible to aphids and other pests, so be sure to check your plant regularly and treat accordingly.
  
• This plant can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.
  
• Cupressus arizonica can grow to be a large tree, so make sure you have enough space for it in your yard.
  
• This plant is drought-tolerant, but make sure to provide supplemental watering

Similar Plants

• Cupressus abramsiana
  
• Cupressus arboricol

Source:
UNF - UNF Landscape - Cupressus arizonica - Arizona cypress
Cupressus arizonica, Arizona cypress | Trees of Stanford & Environs
ARIZ Collections - Cupressus arizonica