Monterey Cypress

(Cupressus macrocarpa)

Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa)

Identifying Characters: Monterey Cypress is immediately identifiable by its very large cones and restricted distribution near Monterey on the California coast.

Similar Species: None.

Measurements: Mature trees have a highly branched, and irregular crown. Mature individuals are between 60 to 80 feet in height and about 2 feet in diameter at breast height.

Cones: Cones 1 to 1.4 inches in diameter, slightly ovate, brown; 8 to 12 hard woody cone scales, with a strong spine.

Leaves: Leaves opposite in 4 rows, longer than 1/16 inch in length; scale-like leaves bright green, usually without a glandular dot.

Bark: Bark gray, fibrous, and rough.

Native Range: Monterey Cypress is limited to two groves near Monterey on the Pacific Coast of California.

Habitat: Monterey Cypress lives on the exposed rocky headlands of the seacoast near Monterey.