2 Common Cypress Trees In Kansas (Photos & Details)
Despite the fact that they are not native to Kansas, cypress trees have thrived in the state. The two common varieties, bald cypress, and Arizona cypress, are distinguished by their tall, straight trunks that rise above the water.
These trees can be found in wetlands and along riverbanks, adding a touch of elegance to the landscape.
In this article, we will explore the details and provide captivating photos of these two common cypress trees in Kansas so that you can identify them very easily.
1. Bald Cypress
- Scientific Name: Taxodium distichum
- Common Name(s): Bald Cypress, Swamp Cypress
- Mature Height: 50-70 feet (15-21 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: No flowers
- Fruit: Round, woody cones
- Uses: The Bald Cypress is commonly used in landscaping for its beautiful, unique appearance. It is also valued for its ability to tolerate wet soil conditions, making it suitable for planting near water bodies or in areas with poor drainage.
The Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) is a deciduous conifer tree that can grow to be 50-70 feet (15-21 meters) tall when mature.
It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in wetlands such as marshes and riverbanks. When young, the tree has a conical shape, but as it grows older, it develops a broad, spreading crown with a straight trunk and pyramidal structure. Bald Cypress leaves are delicate and fluffy, with a bright green tint. In the autumn, they turn a lovely reddish-brown before shedding for the winter.
The Bald Cypress thrives in moist to wet soils, typically in standing water, in the wild. It is well-suited to these conditions and can even endure occasional flooding. The tree is generally planted near bodies of water or in regions with poor drainage in Kansas, where the climate is drier. It enjoys full light but may tolerate some shade.
Once established, the tree is generally drought tolerant, but it benefits from regular irrigation during hot, dry times.
Bald Cypress trees are recognized for their unusual “knees” – woody projections that protrude from the roots above the water’s surface. The function of these knees is unknown, but it is thought that they may help the tree breathe or offer support in moist soil. In addition, the tree produces spherical, woody cones that hold its seeds.
Aside from its aesthetic value, the Bald Cypress has significant ecological benefits. Its dense foliage offers shade and habitat to a wide range of animals, including birds, mammals, and amphibians. The roots of the tree aid in soil stabilization and erosion prevention, and the foliage filters contaminants from water, improving water quality.
Bald Cypress lumber is highly valued and has exceptional decay resistance, making it ideal for outdoor building projects such as fencing, decking, and landscaping elements.
2. Arizona Cypress
- Scientific Name: Cupressus arizonica
- Common Name(s): Arizona Cypress
- Mature Height: 40-60 feet (12-18 meters)
- Native Region: Western United States, primarily Arizona and New Mexico
- Flowers: No flowers
- Fruit: Cone-shaped fruit with scales
- Uses: Widely used as an ornamental tree in landscapes, provides windbreaks, and has valuable timber. Also planted for erosion control and Christmas tree production.
The Arizona Cypress, scientifically known as Cupressus arizonica, is a tall evergreen tree that can grow to be 40-60 feet (12-18 meters) tall when mature. It is native to the western United States, where it is most common in Arizona and New Mexico. This tree is highly prized for its decorative attributes and is frequently planted in gardens.
The Arizona Cypress is distinguished by its columnar shape and narrow, pyramidal growth habit. When crushed, the foliage consists of small, scale-like leaves that exude a pleasant perfume. The tree’s bark is reddish-brown and peels off in small strips as it grows.
The Arizona Cypress is well-suited to dry and desert regions due to its native range and habitat. It prefers well-drained soils and thrives in full light. It is naturally adapted to the harsh circumstances of the southwestern United States and, once established, is drought-tolerant. This makes it an excellent choice for Kansas landscapes, given the state has scorching summers, little rainfall, and well-drained soils.
The Arizona Cypress does not have spectacular flowers, but it does have cone-shaped fruit with woody scales. These cones offer visual appeal to the tree while also providing food for wildlife. Birds can use the dense foliage of the tree as a nesting and roosting site.
The Arizona Cypress has functional functions in addition to its decorative significance. Its dense foliage serves as a good windbreak, shielding you from harsh gusts. The wood of the tree is quite expensive and is widely used in building. Because of its longevity and resistance to decay, it is ideal for outdoor applications including as fences, decks, and siding. Furthermore, because of its deep root system’s capacity to support the soil, Arizona Cypress is frequently planted for erosion management.
Common Cypress Trees In Kansas – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s take a closer look into some of the most commonly asked questions about common cypress trees in Kansas.
Are there any cypress trees in Kansas?
Cypress trees are not native to Kansas and are rarely found growing wild in the state. The climate and environmental conditions in Kansas are unsuitable for most cypress tree species, which are more commonly associated with wetland and swampy areas in milder and more humid climate zones. While some people or landscapers may try to grow cypress trees in controlled environments or gardens, they are not a native or common tree species in Kansas due to the state’s drier and less swampy environment.
What are the commercial uses of cypress trees in Kansas?
Because cypress trees are not native to Kansas, they play no significant role in the state’s commercial activities or industries. However, cypress trees have a variety of commercial uses in areas where they are native, such as the southeastern United States. Cypress wood is highly prized for its durability and resistance to decay, making it valuable for construction purposes, particularly for outdoor applications like decks, fences, and siding.
Furthermore, cypress lumber is used in the manufacture of furniture, cabinetry, and boat building. In some areas, cypress trees are also harvested for their bark, which can be processed for mulch or other horticultural uses. In Kansas, where cypress trees are not a part of the natural landscape, these commercial uses are not relevant to the local economy.
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Sources
The Regional Gardening team makes sure that the information in our articles is accurate by only using sources that are known to be trustworthy. Some of these sources are peer-reviewed journals from government agencies, well-known universities, and scientific research organizations.
- Recommended Plants & Trees For Kansas, Kansas State University
- Native Tree Identification, Kansas Native Plant Society
- Discover Kansas Forests, Kansas Forest Service
- Preferred Trees for Southwest Kansas, Kansas State University
