Plant Database
Monterey Cypress
Cupressus macrocarpa
The Monterey Cypress is a dramatic, wind-sculpted native of the California coast, famous for its gnarled, spreading form and refreshing lemon-scented foliage. In coastal conditions, it develops a picturesque, broad-crowned silhouette. Inland, it grows as a more formal, large pyramidal tree. Fast-growing and exceptionally tolerant of wind and salt spray, it's a majestic specimen for large coastal properties or parks, but its size and specific disease susceptibility (to cypress canker) require careful consideration.
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A large, fast-growing conifer with two distinct forms: wind-sculpted and broad on the coast, tall and pyramidal inland.
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Foliage is dense, dark green, and emits a strong lemon scent when crushed.
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Highly tolerant of coastal winds, salt spray, and sandy soils.
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Very susceptible to cypress canker when planted away from its cool, foggy native habitat, especially in hot, humid summers.
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Develops attractive, furrowed bark with age.
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Best used as a specimen tree in large coastal landscapes or for windbreaks where it is adapted.