How to Grow Cupressus Macrocarpa - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Cupressus macrocarpa is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 m tall. The leaves are scale-like, 2-4 mm long and 1-2 mm broad. The cones are globose, 3-4 cm diameter, with 8-12 scales. The cones are mature in 18-24 months.

How to Grow Cupressus Macrocarpa - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

Cypress
Cedar
Fir
Juniper

Common Knowledge

Cupressus macrocarpa is a species of conifer in the cypress family, native to the western United States and northwest Mexico.
It is a large evergreen tree growing to 3060 m (98197 ft) tall and with a trunk diameter of up to 2 m (6 ft 7 in).
The leaves are scale-like, 36 mm (0.120.24 in) long, and arranged in decussate opposite pairs or whorls of three.
The cones are globose to oblong, 1532 mm (0.5926 in) long and 1227 mm (0.4706 in) broad, ripening brown and shedding their seeds in autumn.
Cupressus macrocarpa is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in temperate regions, where it is grown for its dense evergreen foliage, columnar growth habit, and attractive cones.
It is also used in horticulture as a fast-growing hedge or screen.
The wood is durable and resistant to decay, making it valuable for construction, fencing, and other uses.
Cupressus macrocarpa is susceptible to several diseases and pests, including Phytophthora root rot, cypress canker, and the scale insect Coccus hesperidum.
It is also a host for the Cypress tip moth (Argyresthia cupressella).
The species is classified as least concern by the IUCN Red List due to its large range and healthy population.

Related plant:
Cupressus Arizonica

Planting Process

For cupressus macrocarpa, first step is to find a good location. It should be in full sun and in well-drained soil.
The second step is to clear the area where you want to plant cupressus macrocarpa. Make sure to remove all the weeds and grass in the area.
The third step is to dig a hole that is twice the size of the cupressus macrocarpa's root ball.
The fourth step is to mix some compost or fertilizer into the hole.
The fifth step is to place the cupressus macrocarpa's root ball into the hole.
The sixth step is to fill in the hole with soil.
The seventh step is to water the cupressus macrocarpa deeply.
The eighth step is to mulch around the cupressus macrocarpa.
The ninth step is to fertilize cupressus macrocarpa once per year.
The tenth and final step is to prune cupressus macrocarpa as needed to maintain its shape.

The Soil

About soil condition, cupressus macrocarpa is not too demanding. It prefers a well-drained soil, but once established, it is quite drought tolerant. This tree is also tolerant of most soil types, including clay.

About light

Not too different with other varieties of cypress, the Cupressus macrocarpa prefers full sun. It is a drought-tolerant tree, so it does not need much water once it is established. This hardy tree is also resistant to most pests and diseases.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition of the cupressus macrocarpa is affected by the weather. If the weather is cold, the tree will be more likely to experience a drop in temperature. If the weather is warm, the tree will be more likely to experience an increase in temperature.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% or less. The Cupressus macrocarpa is a drought-tolerant plant that can withstand long periods of time without water. However, the plant will do best if the humidity is kept at 50% or less. Too much humidity can cause the plant to become waterlogged and can lead to fungal growth.

Fertilizer Requirement

Mentioning fertilizer, this type of plant doesn't require too much. Just a light top-dressing of a balanced fertilizer in spring is plenty. Be sure to keep it away from the roots and to water it in well afterwards. If you're thinking of planting a 'Lemon Cypress', it's best to start off with a young plant, as they can be difficult to establish from seed.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of caring for your Cupressus macrocarpa. Pruning helps to encourage new growth, keep the plant healthy, and control its size. When pruning your Cupressus macrocarpa, be sure to remove any dead or dying branches. You can prune your plant anytime from late spring to early summer.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Cupressus macrocarpa is best done by seed. The seeds should be sown in the fall, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location in the spring. Cupressus macrocarpa can also be propagated by cuttings, but this is not as common.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate during the vegetative period is between 3 and 10 cm per year. However, they can grow much faster under ideal conditions, up to 30 cm per year. The optimum growth rate is usually between 5 and 8 cm per year.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, mealybugs, scale, and thrips. These pests can cause the plant to become yellow and can stunt the growth of new leaves and needles. Aphids and mealybugs can also cause the plant to produce honeydew, which can attract ants. To control these pests, you can use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Growing Tips

Make sure to plant your Cupressus macrocarpa in an area that receives full sun.
Cupressus macrocarpa prefers well-drained soil.
When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball.
Once planted, water your Cupressus macrocarpa deeply and regularly (weekly) for the first few months.
Fertilize your Cupressus macrocarpa every spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Prune your Cupressus macrocarpa regularly to maintain its shape and size.
Cupressus macrocarpa is drought-tolerant once established, but will need extra water during extended periods of drought.
Cupressus macrocarpa is also relatively tolerant to salt and smog, making it a good choice for coastal or urban gardens.