Genus of about 24 species of arboreal, evergreen, monoecious conifers native to the Northern Hemisphere, growing in dry, open hilly forests. Cupressus sempervirens stricta is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can reach a height of 25-30 m. The foliage is particularly tapered due to rising branches and for this reason it is called "Maschio" cypress to distinguish it from the var. horizontalis with open branches. The small, dark green leaves are scaly and very fragrant. The fruits are more or less spherical, woody galbules which are also very fragrant, which open when ripe to release the seeds.
Pedoclimatic needs
It prefers a Mediterranean climate with loose and arid soil, although it benefits from regular irrigation during the summer season. This conifer is also moderately rustic, resisting up to -10/- 12°C. It should be planted in a sunny position and tolerates wind and salt well. Much appreciated in parks and gardens for creating hedges and rows. The cypress is also the symbolic tree of cemeteries where it is always planted, because its slender shape "reaches the sky".
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens var. stricta
