1. * Gowen’s Cypress – Hesperocyparis (Cupressus) goveniana
(hes-per-oh-sigh-PARE-us go-ven-ee-ANN-uh)
Family: Cupressaceae (Cypress Family)
Endemic to to the Coast Ranges of central and northwestern California (Monterey
Peninsula); Coastal terraces, on poorly drained, acidic soils, usually on exposed sites, in closed cone
pine/cypress forest below 1200'. Very rare in nature.
Native to:
Woody tree/shrub
mature height: 15-25 ft. mature width: 10-20 ft.
Woody tree/multi-branched large shrub.
May be rounded or more upright and narrow. Bark
smooth tan-gray aging to rough. Needles scale-like (typical of Cypress). Dark green foliage has a
woodsy, slight lemony scent. Many shallow roots + taproot in deeper soils. Moderate growth rate.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring. Separate male and female cones, typical of Cypress. Female
cones open in summer, releasing seeds. Open cones are decorative.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Excellent choice for large hedges, hedgerows and windbreaks near the coast.
Tolerates coastal conditions. Interesting specimen tree with other central coast species. Foliage
useful for floral arrangements, potpourri, smudge sticks and other scented products. Wood used for
many products; hard and disease resistant.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native evergreen trees.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover, nest sites and seeds for food.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun.
Well-drained soils are best; ok with most coastal soils.
Best with occasional summer water (Water Zone 2); rinse dust off leaves, summer
None.
Susceptible to fungal root diseases; don’t over water
Management:
Prune dead branches; other than that little needed.
Propagation: from seed: low germination; dampening off
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 6, 8
by cuttings: ??
4/28/12
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