BALD CYPRUS Toxidium distichum imbricatum
Taxodium distichum (bald cypress) is a deciduous conifer, and is native to the southeastern United States. Hardy and tough, this tree adapts to a wide range of soil types, whether wet, salty, dry, or swampy. It is noted for the russet-red fall color of its lacy needles. Common names include bald cypress, baldcypress, swamp cypress, white cypress, tidewater red cypress, gulf cypress and red cypress.
These plants are sometimes used for bonsai, though they can be grown as a regular full-sized tree. If growing as a Bonsai, we are offering our Bonsai growing instruction booklet as an option with your seeds. It contains full-colour images and detailed information about germinating, growing, pruning and potting your new bonsai! It is the same booklet that is offered in our bonsai kit.
Hardiness zones: 5-12
Location: Sun or part sun
Seeds per pack: 3
Germination: Soak in ethyl alcohol, let stand in alcohol for 5 minutes. Obtain a sterile seed-start mix, and place 1-2 seeds in each pot, and lightly cover it with soil. Water thoroughly. If you are starting your seeds in a warm season, place the pots in a plastic bag, and place them in a refrigerator for 90 days. If you are starting your seeds during the cool weather, the pots can be placed in a cold garage. Once the cold period is completed, place the pots in a warm, sunny spot. You should see the first sign of germination within the next few days or weeks, depending on the variety. Generally a 10-60 day range is normal for the first signs of growth. When the seedlings are about 5cm (2") tall, remove any additional plants and leave only the strongest seedling in each pot. The removed seedlings can be planted in a garden or elsewhere if desired.
