Arizona Cypress (Cupressus arizonica) is a beautiful evergreen conifer prized for its attractive silvery-blue to blue-green foliage, fast growth, and excellent drought tolerance. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this hardy tree is widely planted for windbreaks, privacy screens, erosion control, and ornamental landscaping. Its naturally pyramidal shape and year-round evergreen color make it an outstanding choice for home landscapes, parks, and conservation plantings.
Botanical Information
- Botanical Name: Cupressus arizonica
- Common Name: Arizona Cypress
- Germination Rate: 30–50%
- Plant Type: Evergreen Conifer
- Family: Cupressaceae
- Native Range: Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico
Germination Instructions
Arizona Cypress seeds require a period of cold moist stratification to achieve the best germination results.
- Cold moist stratify seeds for 21–30 days before planting.
- Sow seeds approximately 1/8 inch deep in a well-drained seed starting mix.
- Keep the growing medium consistently moist but never saturated.
- Maintain temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C) during germination.
- Place seed trays in bright, indirect light.
- Use a humidity dome to help retain moisture during germination.
- Germination typically occurs over several weeks.
Growing Information
- Hardiness Zones: USDA 7–9
- Mature Height: 40–60 feet
- Mature Spread: 20–30 feet
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Light Requirements: Full Sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy, rocky, gravelly, or loamy soils
- Soil pH: 6.0–8.0
- Water Requirements: Moderate during establishment; drought tolerant once mature
- Drought Tolerance: Excellent
- Wildlife Value: Provides excellent shelter and nesting habitat for birds throughout the year.
- Landscape Uses: Windbreaks, privacy screens, shelterbelts, specimen trees, erosion control, and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Arizona Cypress thrives in hot, sunny locations with well-drained soil. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and is highly resistant to drought, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes. Its dense evergreen foliage creates an effective year-round screen while adding beautiful color and texture to the landscape.
Seed Quantities Available
- 1 oz. - 2,188 Seeds
- 1/4 lb. - 8,752 Seeds
- 1 lb. - 35,008 Seeds