Baldcypress

Description

Commonly found in wet, poorly drained soils, baldcypress is native to western Tennessee where it may exist in pure stands or mixed with water tupelo, swamp blackgum, red maple, and American elm. In wetlands, baldcypress groves are often characterized by their “knees,” a conical upward growth of the root system that extends beyond the soil and water’s surface. Baldcypress trees are large, growing 100-120 feet in height, and display bronze foliage during fall. Baldcypress should be planted in full sun, as this species is intolerant of shade. Baldcypress wood is valuable for siding, beams, shingles, shakes, boat planking, and other wood products requiring high durability and decay resistance.