Taxodium distichum

Taxodium distichum, commonly known as the Swamp Cypress or Bald Cypress, is a deciduous conifer native to the eastern and southeastern United States, Mexico, and Guatemala. It is well-suited for a variety of environments, from marshy grounds to ordinary garden soil. It can even grow in up to 0.6 metres of water, thanks to its mangrove-like aerial roots that allow the tree to breathe underwater.

During the spring, the tree features soft-green, feathery leaves that turn into stunning shades of russet and gold in the autumn. These leaves are known to persist well into the winter months, adding year-round interest. The tree maintains a narrow pyramidal shape for a long time but can ultimately grow to a width of 7-10 metres. Its fibrous trunk is knotty and broad at the bottom, twisting in an anti-clockwise spiral.

The tree is also monoecious, with ovoid green cones that turn brown when ripe. It is hardy and can tolerate long periods of submersion under water, making it an excellent choice for moist to wet, sheltered sites.