Table of Contents
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Overview
Distribution
More info for the term: natural
Monterey cypress occurs in two natural stands in Monterey County,
California. One stand is between Point Cypress and Pescadero Point on
the north side of Carmel Bay, Monterey Peninsula. A smaller one is near
Point Lobos on the south side of Carmel Bay [13,33]. Monterey cypress
is widely planted and naturalized on the California coast [13]. It has
been planted in Hawaii, Europe, South America, Australia, and New
Zealand [17].
Monterey cypress occurs in two natural stands in Monterey County,
California. One stand is between Point Cypress and Pescadero Point on
the north side of Carmel Bay, Monterey Peninsula. A smaller one is near
Point Lobos on the south side of Carmel Bay [13,33]. Monterey cypress
is widely planted and naturalized on the California coast [13]. It has
been planted in Hawaii, Europe, South America, Australia, and New
Zealand [17].
- 13. Holland, Robert F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Fish and Game. 156 p. [12756]
- 17. Little, Elbert L., Jr.; Skomen, Roger G. 1989. Common forest trees of Hawaii (native and introduced). Agric. Handb. 679. Washington, DC: U.S Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 321 p. [9433]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
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Regional Distribution in the Western United States
More info on this topic.
This species can be found in the following regions of the western United States (according to the Bureau of Land Management classification of Physiographic Regions of the western United States):
3 Southern Pacific Border
This species can be found in the following regions of the western United States (according to the Bureau of Land Management classification of Physiographic Regions of the western United States):
3 Southern Pacific Border
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Localities documented in Tropicos sources
Callitropsis macrocarpa (Hartw. ex Gordon) D.P. Little:
United States (North America)
Note: This information is based on publications available through Tropicos and may not represent the entire distribution. Tropicos does not categorize distributions as native or non-native.
United States (North America)
Note: This information is based on publications available through Tropicos and may not represent the entire distribution. Tropicos does not categorize distributions as native or non-native.
-
Little, D. P. 2006. Evolution and circumscription of the true cypresses (Cupressaceae: Cupressus). Syst. Bot. 31(3): 461–480.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/1030199
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Localities documented in Tropicos sources
Cupressus macrocarpa Hartw. ex Gordon:
Ecuador (South America)
United States (North America)
Bolivia (South America)
Note: This information is based on publications available through Tropicos and may not represent the entire distribution. Tropicos does not categorize distributions as native or non-native.
Ecuador (South America)
United States (North America)
Bolivia (South America)
Note: This information is based on publications available through Tropicos and may not represent the entire distribution. Tropicos does not categorize distributions as native or non-native.
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Killeen, T. J., E. García Estigarribia & S. G. Beck. (eds.) 1993. Guia Arb. Bolivia 1–958. Herbario Nacional de Bolivia & Missouri Botanical Garden, La Paz.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/1000017
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Anonymous. 1986. List-Based Rec., Soil Conserv. Serv., U.S.D.A. Database of the U.S.D.A., Beltsville.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/1103
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Lawesson, J. E., H. Adsersen & P. Bentley. 1987. An updated and annotated check list of the vascular plants of the Galapagos Islands. Rep. Bot. Inst. Univ. Aarhus 16: 1–74.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/43197
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Jørgensen, P. M. & S. León-Yánez. (eds.) 1999. Catalogue of the vascular plants of Ecuador. Monogr. Syst. Bot. Missouri Bot. Gard. 75: i–viii, 1–1181.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/42250
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Munz, P. A. & D. D. Keck. 1959. Cal. Fl. 1–1681. University of California Press, Berkeley.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/1717
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Flora of North America Editorial Committee, e. 1993. Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms. 2: i–xvi, 1–475. In Fl. N. Amer. Oxford University Press, New York.
http://www.tropicos.org/Reference/10884
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Calif.
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Range Description
In the wild this species is restricted to two healthy subpopulations occurring in Point Lobos and Point Cypress.
© International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Source:
IUCN
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National Distribution
Puerto Rico
Origin: Exotic
Regularity: Regularly occurring
Currently: Unknown/Undetermined
Confidence: Confident
United States
Origin: Native
Regularity: Regularly occurring
Currently: Present
Confidence: Confident
Type of Residency: Year-round
© NatureServe
Source:
NatureServe
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Global Range: Native to the Monterey Peninsula, California; cultivated in other parts of northern and central coastal California and elsewhere.
© NatureServe
Source:
NatureServe
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The species occurs naturally in only two locations, both in coastal Monterey County, California, USA. These two disjunct stands are found at Point Lobos and at Cypress Point in the Del Monte Forest, separated by Carmel Bay. Both stands are situated on coastal bluffs at elevations less than 30 meters, and are considered relicts of a broader historical distribution.
- * Farjon, A., Page C. N., & Brown, M. J. (1999). ''Conifers: Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan''. IUCN, 121 pages ISBN 2831704650
- * Griffin, J. R. & Critchfield, W. B. (1976). ''The Distribution of Forest Trees in California''. USDA Forest Service Research Paper PWS-82.
- * Hogan, C.M. & Frankis, M.P., ''Monterey Cypress: Cupressus macrocarpa'', GlobalTwitcher,com, ed. N. Stromberg [http://www.globaltwitcher.com/artspec_information.asp?thingid=62524]
Supplier: C. Michael Hogan
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Distribution: Native of California. Cultivated elsewhere.
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Physical Description
Morphology
Description
Trees to 25 m; crown generally broadly spreading, especially on exposed headlands, fairly sparse, often composed of few major limbs from near ground, more upright in sheltered locations. Bark rough, fibrous. Branchlets decussate, 1.5--2 mm diam. Leaves without gland or sometimes with inconspicuous, shallow, pitlike, abaxial gland that does not produce drop of resin, not glaucous. Pollen cones 4--6 ´ 2.5--3 mm; pollen sacs 6--10. Seed cones oblong, 2.5--4 cm, grayish brown, not glaucous; scales 4--6 pairs, smooth, umbo nearly flat at maturity. Seeds mostly 5--6 mm, dark brown, not glaucous. 2 n = 22.
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Description
More info for the term: tree
Monterey cypress is a native, evergreen tree. In native groves, trees
on the coastal fringe are severely sculptured and distorted. A short
distance inland, an erect form and light branching are apparent, showing
that this cypress, although capable of enduring wind and salt-blasting,
responds well to shelter [22,34]. Monterey cypress grows to 82 feet (25
m) tall. Mature leaves are 0.08 inch (2 mm) long, although they can be
up to 0.4 inch (10 mm) on vigorous shoots [2,23,34]. Ovulate cones are
solitary, up to 1.4 inches (35 mm) long. Staminate cones are 0.24 (6 mm)
long [12,23,34]. The bark is thick and fibrous, becoming furrowed with
age [23,34]. A well-defined taproot and numerous laterals are formed
the first year [14,34]. Naturalists at the Point Lobos State Reserve
have estimated the maximum age of Monterey cypress at 200 to 300 years
[33].
Monterey cypress is a native, evergreen tree. In native groves, trees
on the coastal fringe are severely sculptured and distorted. A short
distance inland, an erect form and light branching are apparent, showing
that this cypress, although capable of enduring wind and salt-blasting,
responds well to shelter [22,34]. Monterey cypress grows to 82 feet (25
m) tall. Mature leaves are 0.08 inch (2 mm) long, although they can be
up to 0.4 inch (10 mm) on vigorous shoots [2,23,34]. Ovulate cones are
solitary, up to 1.4 inches (35 mm) long. Staminate cones are 0.24 (6 mm)
long [12,23,34]. The bark is thick and fibrous, becoming furrowed with
age [23,34]. A well-defined taproot and numerous laterals are formed
the first year [14,34]. Naturalists at the Point Lobos State Reserve
have estimated the maximum age of Monterey cypress at 200 to 300 years
[33].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 12. Hickman, James C., ed. 1993. The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. 1400 p. [21992]
- 14. Johnson, LeRoy C. 1974. Cupressus L. cypress. In: Schopmeyer, C. S., technical coordinator. Seeds of woody plants in the United States. Agric. Handb. 450. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 363-369. [7599]
- 22. Miller, J. T.; Knowles, F. B. 1990. Introduced forest trees in New Zealand: recognition, role and seed source. 9. The cypresses: Cupressus spp. and Chamaecyparis spp. FRI Bulletin 124/9. Christchurch, New Zealand: New Zealand Forest Service. 33 p. [21880]
- 23. Munz, Philip A. 1973. A California flora and supplement. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. 1905 p. [6155]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
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Description
Similar to C. sempervirens but differing in the larger, more clustered fruits which are darker coloured (fide Parker, I.e.).
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Physical Description
Tree, Shrub, Evergreen, Monoecious, Habit erect, Trees without or rarely having knees, Tree with bark rough or scaly, Young shoots 3-dimensional, Buds not resinous, Leaves scale-like, Leaves opposite, Non-needle-like leaf margins entire, Leaf apex acute, Leaf apex obtuse, Leaves < 5 cm long, Leaves < 10 cm long, Leaves not blue-green, Scale leaves without raised glands, Scale leaf glands not ruptured, Scale leaves overlapping, Twigs glabrous, Twigs not viscid, Twigs without peg-like projections or large fascicles after needles fall, Berry-like cones orange, Woody seed cones < 5 cm long, Bracts of seed cone included, Seeds brown, Seeds winged, Seeds equally winged, Seed wings narrower than body.
Stephen C. Meyers
Source:
USDA NRCS PLANTS Database
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Ecology
Habitat
Key Plant Community Associations
More info for the terms: natural, shrubs
Monterey cypress is the dominant component of the Monterey cypress
forest community [13]. This community is a moderately dense,
fire-maintained forest up to 82 feet (25 m) tall in sheltered areas
[13,31]. Monterey cypress typically grows in pure stands with an
understory of scattered dwarf shrubs and perennial herbs [13]. It
intergrades with northern coastal bluff scrub on exposed seaward edges
and with Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) forest away from the ocean
[13,33]. Monterey cypress is associated with closed-cone coniferous
woodlands and closed-cone pine-cypress forests [23,27,33].
Publications naming Monterey cypress as a community dominant are listed
below.
Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of
California [13]
The vascular plant communities of California [31]
The closed-cone pines and cypress [33]
Species not previously mentioned but commonly associated with Monterey
cypress include Gowen cypress (Cupressus goveniana ssp. goveniana),
California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), chamise (Adenostoma
fasciculatum), Hooker manzanita (Arctostaphylos hookeri), woolyleaf
manzanita (A. tomentosa), chaparral broom (Baccharis pilularis),
coyotebrush (B. pilularis var. consanguinea), blue blossom (Ceanothus
thyrsiflorus), liveforever (Dudleya farinosa), seaside daisy (Erigeron
glaucus), golden-yarrow (Eriophyllum confertiflorum), lizard tail (E.
staechidifolium), salal (Gaultheria shallon), Douglas iris (Iris
douglasiana), bush monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus), Pacific bayberry
(Myrica californica), skunkweed (Navarretia squarrosa), poison-oak
(Toxicodendron diversiloba), and California huckleberry (Vaccinium
ovatum) [13,19,33].
Monterey cypress is the dominant component of the Monterey cypress
forest community [13]. This community is a moderately dense,
fire-maintained forest up to 82 feet (25 m) tall in sheltered areas
[13,31]. Monterey cypress typically grows in pure stands with an
understory of scattered dwarf shrubs and perennial herbs [13]. It
intergrades with northern coastal bluff scrub on exposed seaward edges
and with Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) forest away from the ocean
[13,33]. Monterey cypress is associated with closed-cone coniferous
woodlands and closed-cone pine-cypress forests [23,27,33].
Publications naming Monterey cypress as a community dominant are listed
below.
Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of
California [13]
The vascular plant communities of California [31]
The closed-cone pines and cypress [33]
Species not previously mentioned but commonly associated with Monterey
cypress include Gowen cypress (Cupressus goveniana ssp. goveniana),
California sagebrush (Artemisia californica), chamise (Adenostoma
fasciculatum), Hooker manzanita (Arctostaphylos hookeri), woolyleaf
manzanita (A. tomentosa), chaparral broom (Baccharis pilularis),
coyotebrush (B. pilularis var. consanguinea), blue blossom (Ceanothus
thyrsiflorus), liveforever (Dudleya farinosa), seaside daisy (Erigeron
glaucus), golden-yarrow (Eriophyllum confertiflorum), lizard tail (E.
staechidifolium), salal (Gaultheria shallon), Douglas iris (Iris
douglasiana), bush monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus), Pacific bayberry
(Myrica californica), skunkweed (Navarretia squarrosa), poison-oak
(Toxicodendron diversiloba), and California huckleberry (Vaccinium
ovatum) [13,19,33].
- 13. Holland, Robert F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Fish and Game. 156 p. [12756]
- 19. McDonald, Philip M.; Laacke, Robert J. 1990. Pinus radiata D. Don Monterey pine. In: Burns, Russell M.; Honkala, Barbara H., technical coordinators. Silvics of North America. Volume 1. Conifers. Agric. Handb. 654. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 433-441. [13401]
- 23. Munz, Philip A. 1973. A California flora and supplement. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. 1905 p. [6155]
- 27. Smith, James Payne, Jr.; Berg, Ken. 1988. Inventory of rare and endangered vascular plants of California. 4th ed. Special Publication No. 1. Sacramento, CA: California Native Plant Society. 168 p. [7494]
- 31. Thorne, Robert F. 1976. The vascular plant communities of California. In: Latting, June, ed. Symposium proceedings: plant communities of southern California; 1974 May 4; Fullerton, CA. Special Publication No. 2. Berkeley, CA: California Native Plant Society: 1-31. [3289]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
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Habitat: Ecosystem
More info on this topic.
This species is known to occur in the following ecosystem types (as named by the U.S. Forest Service in their Forest and Range Ecosystem [FRES] Type classification):
FRES34 Chaparral - mountain shrub
This species is known to occur in the following ecosystem types (as named by the U.S. Forest Service in their Forest and Range Ecosystem [FRES] Type classification):
FRES34 Chaparral - mountain shrub
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Habitat characteristics
In native stands, Monterey cypress is confined to rocky, granitic soils
of coastal headlands and bluffs exposed to nearly constant onshore winds
[13,35]. These acidic, sandy soils generally have a pH of 4.5 to 5.5
[33]. Monterey cypress occurs at elevations from sea level to 100 feet
(30 m) [12,24].
of coastal headlands and bluffs exposed to nearly constant onshore winds
[13,35]. These acidic, sandy soils generally have a pH of 4.5 to 5.5
[33]. Monterey cypress occurs at elevations from sea level to 100 feet
(30 m) [12,24].
- 13. Holland, Robert F. 1986. Preliminary descriptions of the terrestrial natural communities of California. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Fish and Game. 156 p. [12756]
- 12. Hickman, James C., ed. 1993. The Jepson manual: Higher plants of California. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. 1400 p. [21992]
- 24. Posey, Clayton E.; Goggans, James F. 1967. Observations on species of cypress indigenous to the United States. Circular 153. Auburn, AL: Auburn University, Agricultural Experiment Station. 19 p. [20384]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
- 35. Zedler, Paul H. 1986. Closed-cone conifers of the chaparral. Fremontia. 14(3): 14-17. [18648]
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Habitat: Plant Associations
More info on this topic.
This species is known to occur in association with the following plant community types (as classified by Küchler 1964):
K009 Pine - cypress forest
K033 Chaparral
This species is known to occur in association with the following plant community types (as classified by Küchler 1964):
K009 Pine - cypress forest
K033 Chaparral
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Coastal bluffs; of conservation concern; 5--35m.
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
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Habitat and Ecology
Systems
- Terrestrial
© International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Source:
IUCN
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Comments: Closed-cone-pine/cypress forests; less than 30 m elevation.
© NatureServe
Source:
NatureServe
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The `Monterey Cypress' is reportedly cultivated at Abbottabad. (Parker, Lc.).
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
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Missouri Botanical Garden
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Associations
In Great Britain and/or Ireland:
Plant / epiphyte
resupinate fruitbody of Amylostereum laevigatum grows on dead bark of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / pathogen
Armillaria mellea s.l. infects and damages Cupressus macrocarpa
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Battarrea phalloides is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / sap sucker
Cinara cupressi sucks sap of live foliage of Cupressus macrocarpa
Remarks: season: 5-8
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Geastrum floriforme is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Geastrum pectinatum is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Lindtneria leucobryophila is saprobic on dead, decayed needle of litter of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Litschauerella abietis is saprobic on dead, fallen, decayed branch (small) of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Marasmiellus candidus is saprobic on dead wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: unusual host/prey
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Postia wakefieldiae is saprobic on dead, fallen, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / pathogen
Seiridium cardinale infects and damages cankered trunk of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
epigeous fruitbody of Stephanospora caroticolor is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: unusual host/prey
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Subulicium lautum is saprobic on dead, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Foodplant / feeds on
Trisetacus chamaecypari feeds on foliage of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
Tubulicrinis regificus is saprobic on dead, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Plant / epiphyte
resupinate fruitbody of Amylostereum laevigatum grows on dead bark of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / pathogen
Armillaria mellea s.l. infects and damages Cupressus macrocarpa
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Battarrea phalloides is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / sap sucker
Cinara cupressi sucks sap of live foliage of Cupressus macrocarpa
Remarks: season: 5-8
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Geastrum floriforme is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
fruitbody of Geastrum pectinatum is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Lindtneria leucobryophila is saprobic on dead, decayed needle of litter of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Litschauerella abietis is saprobic on dead, fallen, decayed branch (small) of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Marasmiellus candidus is saprobic on dead wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: unusual host/prey
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Postia wakefieldiae is saprobic on dead, fallen, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / pathogen
Seiridium cardinale infects and damages cankered trunk of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Plant / associate
epigeous fruitbody of Stephanospora caroticolor is associated with Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: unusual host/prey
Foodplant / saprobe
fruitbody of Subulicium lautum is saprobic on dead, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
Other: major host/prey
Foodplant / feeds on
Trisetacus chamaecypari feeds on foliage of Cupressus macrocarpa
Foodplant / saprobe
Tubulicrinis regificus is saprobic on dead, decayed wood of Cupressus macrocarpa
© BioImages
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General Ecology
Fire Management Considerations
Fires occurring too frequently in groves of California cypress species
may destroy them, as reproduction could be eliminated before trees have
a chance to produce cones [2]. Fire followed by intensive grazing could
eliminate a cypress grove [2,3].
may destroy them, as reproduction could be eliminated before trees have
a chance to produce cones [2]. Fire followed by intensive grazing could
eliminate a cypress grove [2,3].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 3. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1978. Southern California's vanishing cypresses. Fremontia. 6(2): 24-29. [22295]
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Plant Response to Fire
California cypress species trees release large quantities of seed
after fire [34].
after fire [34].
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
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Immediate Effect of Fire
Most fires probably kill Monterey cypress. Cypress thickets are
conducive to crown fires, which usually kill most trees in the burned
area. Some trees survive when fires are patchy [33]. Large trees might
survive surface fires.
Cones of the California cypress species open as the resin melts and
boils. Rapid charring of the thick cone scales extinguishes the flames,
leaving seeds unburned [2].
conducive to crown fires, which usually kill most trees in the burned
area. Some trees survive when fires are patchy [33]. Large trees might
survive surface fires.
Cones of the California cypress species open as the resin melts and
boils. Rapid charring of the thick cone scales extinguishes the flames,
leaving seeds unburned [2].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
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Post-fire Regeneration
More info for the terms: crown residual colonizer, root crown
Tree without adventitious-bud root crown
Crown residual colonizer (on-site, initial community)
Initial-offsite colonizer (off-site, initial community)
Tree without adventitious-bud root crown
Crown residual colonizer (on-site, initial community)
Initial-offsite colonizer (off-site, initial community)
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Fire Ecology
More info for the terms: crown fire, frequency, serotinous
Monterey cypress is a fire-adapted species with serotinous cones [33].
Serotiny is less pronounced in Monterey cypress than in other California
cypress species, possibly due to reduced frequency of intense crown
fires near the ocean [20,33]. Monterey cypress is capable of seedling
establishment with or without crown fire, although fire provides optimum
site conditions for regeneration [20]. Some Monterey cypress trees
survive fire; "fire-hollowed" trees were reported on sites containing
both Monterey cypress and pines [34].
When cones of the California cypress species are opened by the heat of a
fire, the seeds fall on exposed mineral soil [16,34]. Most seed falls
in the first few months following fire [35]. Fires that occur in late
summer and fall and are followed by winter rains ensure seed
dissemination on bare mineral substrates and moist conditions for
germination [33]. No information was available on fire-free intervals
for communities dominated by Monterey cypress. Tecate cypress
(Cupressus guadalupenis var. forbesii), a cypress found in southern
California, has an average interval between fires of 25 years, ranging
from 15 to 63 years [2,33].
Monterey cypress is a fire-adapted species with serotinous cones [33].
Serotiny is less pronounced in Monterey cypress than in other California
cypress species, possibly due to reduced frequency of intense crown
fires near the ocean [20,33]. Monterey cypress is capable of seedling
establishment with or without crown fire, although fire provides optimum
site conditions for regeneration [20]. Some Monterey cypress trees
survive fire; "fire-hollowed" trees were reported on sites containing
both Monterey cypress and pines [34].
When cones of the California cypress species are opened by the heat of a
fire, the seeds fall on exposed mineral soil [16,34]. Most seed falls
in the first few months following fire [35]. Fires that occur in late
summer and fall and are followed by winter rains ensure seed
dissemination on bare mineral substrates and moist conditions for
germination [33]. No information was available on fire-free intervals
for communities dominated by Monterey cypress. Tecate cypress
(Cupressus guadalupenis var. forbesii), a cypress found in southern
California, has an average interval between fires of 25 years, ranging
from 15 to 63 years [2,33].
- 16. Little, Elbert L., Jr. 1975. Rare and local conifers in the United States. Conservation Research Rep. No. 19. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 25 p. [15691]
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 20. McMaster, Gregory S.; Zedler, Paul H. 1981. Delayed seed dispersal in Pinus torreyana (Torrey pine). Oecologia. 51: 62-66. [21615]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
- 35. Zedler, Paul H. 1986. Closed-cone conifers of the chaparral. Fremontia. 14(3): 14-17. [18648]
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Successional Status
More info on this topic.
Facultative Seral Species
Site requirements for cypress seedlings are typical of those for pioneer
conifers. Seedlings are shade intolerant and survive best in full
sunlight on bare mineral soil [2,33]. According to Armstrong [2],
cypress trees of southern California are very sensitive to lack of
light, losing their foliage when growing in shade.
Although chaparral species inhibit the establishment of cypress
seedlings, few chaparral species are able to compete on infertile soils
where Monterey cypress is found [2,3]. Pines may outcompete Monterey
cypress where they are found together [34].
Facultative Seral Species
Site requirements for cypress seedlings are typical of those for pioneer
conifers. Seedlings are shade intolerant and survive best in full
sunlight on bare mineral soil [2,33]. According to Armstrong [2],
cypress trees of southern California are very sensitive to lack of
light, losing their foliage when growing in shade.
Although chaparral species inhibit the establishment of cypress
seedlings, few chaparral species are able to compete on infertile soils
where Monterey cypress is found [2,3]. Pines may outcompete Monterey
cypress where they are found together [34].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 3. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1978. Southern California's vanishing cypresses. Fremontia. 6(2): 24-29. [22295]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
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Regeneration Processes
Monterey cypress reproduces exclusively from seed. Cone production is
abundant. Staminate cone production begins on trees that are 6 to 7
years old [34]. Ovulate cone production begins on trees that are less
than 10 years of age [5]. The cones require 2 years to mature [2,33]
and can contain 140 seeds [14]. The cones of Monterey cypress remain
closed for only a few years after maturity; seed dispersal is a
continuous process and can occur without fire [20,35]. Seeds maintain
viability for up to 4 years on trees [5]. Seed dispersal is primarily
by wind and rain [8,33].
Cypress seeds require bare mineral soil for germination and
establishment. Seedling mortality is high on shaded sites with abundant
litter because of damping-off fungi [2,33]. Seedlings are sensitive to
excessive moisture [34].
abundant. Staminate cone production begins on trees that are 6 to 7
years old [34]. Ovulate cone production begins on trees that are less
than 10 years of age [5]. The cones require 2 years to mature [2,33]
and can contain 140 seeds [14]. The cones of Monterey cypress remain
closed for only a few years after maturity; seed dispersal is a
continuous process and can occur without fire [20,35]. Seeds maintain
viability for up to 4 years on trees [5]. Seed dispersal is primarily
by wind and rain [8,33].
Cypress seeds require bare mineral soil for germination and
establishment. Seedling mortality is high on shaded sites with abundant
litter because of damping-off fungi [2,33]. Seedlings are sensitive to
excessive moisture [34].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 5. Conkle, M. Thompson. 1987. Electrophoretic analysis of variation in native Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa Hartw.). In: Elias, Thomas S., ed. Conservation and management of rare and endangered plants: Proceedings of a California conference; [Date unknown]
- 8. Frankie, Gordon W. 1973. Feeding habits and seasonal history of Ernobius conicola in cones of Monterey cypress with notes on cohabiting insects. Pan-Pacific Entomologist. 49(2): 102-109. [22634]
- 14. Johnson, LeRoy C. 1974. Cupressus L. cypress. In: Schopmeyer, C. S., technical coordinator. Seeds of woody plants in the United States. Agric. Handb. 450. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 363-369. [7599]
- 20. McMaster, Gregory S.; Zedler, Paul H. 1981. Delayed seed dispersal in Pinus torreyana (Torrey pine). Oecologia. 51: 62-66. [21615]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
- 35. Zedler, Paul H. 1986. Closed-cone conifers of the chaparral. Fremontia. 14(3): 14-17. [18648]
Trusted
Growth Form (according to Raunkiær Life-form classification)
Trusted
Life History and Behavior
Cyclicity
Phenology
More info on this topic.
In California, growth and development of Monterey cypress cones begins
in January and extends to December of the same year. In the second year
of development, cones are pollinated in February and March [8]. Seeds
mature 15 to 18 months after pollination [14].
In California, growth and development of Monterey cypress cones begins
in January and extends to December of the same year. In the second year
of development, cones are pollinated in February and March [8]. Seeds
mature 15 to 18 months after pollination [14].
- 8. Frankie, Gordon W. 1973. Feeding habits and seasonal history of Ernobius conicola in cones of Monterey cypress with notes on cohabiting insects. Pan-Pacific Entomologist. 49(2): 102-109. [22634]
- 14. Johnson, LeRoy C. 1974. Cupressus L. cypress. In: Schopmeyer, C. S., technical coordinator. Seeds of woody plants in the United States. Agric. Handb. 450. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 363-369. [7599]
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Molecular Biology and Genetics
Molecular Biology
Barcode data: Hesperocyparis macrocarpa
The following is a representative barcode sequence, the centroid of all available sequences for this species.
No available public DNA sequences.
Download FASTA File
No available public DNA sequences.
Download FASTA File
© Barcode of Life Data Systems
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Statistics of barcoding coverage: Hesperocyparis macrocarpa
Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLDS) Stats
Public Records: 4
Specimens with Barcodes: 4
Species With Barcodes: 1
Public Records: 4
Specimens with Barcodes: 4
Species With Barcodes: 1
© Barcode of Life Data Systems
Trusted
Statistics of barcoding coverage: Cupressus macrocarpa
Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLDS) Stats
Public Records: 0
Specimens with Barcodes: 7
Species With Barcodes: 1
Public Records: 0
Specimens with Barcodes: 7
Species With Barcodes: 1
© Barcode of Life Data Systems
Trusted
Conservation
Conservation Status
The California Native Plant Society lists Monterey cypress in Category
1B: rare or endangered in California [27].
1B: rare or endangered in California [27].
- 27. Smith, James Payne, Jr.; Berg, Ken. 1988. Inventory of rare and endangered vascular plants of California. 4th ed. Special Publication No. 1. Sacramento, CA: California Native Plant Society. 168 p. [7494]
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U.S. Federal Legal Status
None [36]
- 36. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. 2013. Endangered Species Program, [Online]
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IUCN Red List Assessment
Red List Category
VU
Vulnerable
Red List Criteria
D2
Version
2.3
Year Assessed
1998
- Needs updating
Assessor/s
Conifer Specialist Group
Reviewer/s
History
- 1997Endangered(Walter and Gillett 1998)
- 1978Rare
© International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Source:
IUCN
Trusted
National NatureServe Conservation Status
Puerto Rico
Rounded National Status Rank: NNA - Not Applicable
United States
Rounded National Status Rank: N1 - Critically Imperiled
© NatureServe
Source:
NatureServe
Trusted
NatureServe Conservation Status
Rounded Global Status Rank: G1 - Critically Imperiled
Reasons: Small range; native to the Monterey Peninsula, California, though widely planted and naturalized elsewhere.
© NatureServe
Source:
NatureServe
Trusted
Trends
Population
Population
A widely planted and naturalized species. The Point Lobos subpopulation is thought to contain between 500 and 1,000 individuals.
© International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Source:
IUCN
Trusted
Management
Management considerations
Monterey cypress is considered rare in its range. Portions of the
Monterey cypress grove on Monterey Peninsula have been destroyed for
housing developments and golf courses [2,3].
Grazing and trampling by livestock are detrimental to cypress seedlings
[2,3].
In Tasmania, ingestion of foliage of Monterey cypress trees has been
associated with abortion in cattle and cerebral leucomalacia of the
aborted fetus [26].
Monterey cypress seedlings are susceptible to damping-off fungi [2,33].
Monterey cypress is highly susceptible to coryneum canker (Coryneum
cardinale), which can kill trees. Coryneum canker (cypress canker) may
spread naturally by rain, wind, birds, rodents, and bark beetles, which
disseminate fungal spores [7]. Coryneum canker has eliminated some
inland plantations of Monterey cypress [14]. Monterey cypress trees on
the coast seem resistant to coryneum canker possibly because of the
constant spray of salt, which decreases fungal spore viability [33].
One species of bark beetle (Ernobius conicola) infests green and dry
cones of Monterey cypress and dead branches of the same host. It only
infests trees found in the two native populations on Monterey Peninsula.
Two moth species (Laspeyresia cupressana and Henricus macrocarpara) are
associated with the bark beetle in 2-year-old Monterey cypress cones.
The larvae of these insects can cause damage to the seeds [7,8].
In park plantings in San Francisco, Monterey cypress trees grow rapidly
and are overmature by 70 years of age. Many have root rot, excessive
lean, large dead branches, and a small proportion of live crown [5].
Methods for establishing Monterey cypress in New Zealand are described
by Glass {10].
Monterey cypress grove on Monterey Peninsula have been destroyed for
housing developments and golf courses [2,3].
Grazing and trampling by livestock are detrimental to cypress seedlings
[2,3].
In Tasmania, ingestion of foliage of Monterey cypress trees has been
associated with abortion in cattle and cerebral leucomalacia of the
aborted fetus [26].
Monterey cypress seedlings are susceptible to damping-off fungi [2,33].
Monterey cypress is highly susceptible to coryneum canker (Coryneum
cardinale), which can kill trees. Coryneum canker (cypress canker) may
spread naturally by rain, wind, birds, rodents, and bark beetles, which
disseminate fungal spores [7]. Coryneum canker has eliminated some
inland plantations of Monterey cypress [14]. Monterey cypress trees on
the coast seem resistant to coryneum canker possibly because of the
constant spray of salt, which decreases fungal spore viability [33].
One species of bark beetle (Ernobius conicola) infests green and dry
cones of Monterey cypress and dead branches of the same host. It only
infests trees found in the two native populations on Monterey Peninsula.
Two moth species (Laspeyresia cupressana and Henricus macrocarpara) are
associated with the bark beetle in 2-year-old Monterey cypress cones.
The larvae of these insects can cause damage to the seeds [7,8].
In park plantings in San Francisco, Monterey cypress trees grow rapidly
and are overmature by 70 years of age. Many have root rot, excessive
lean, large dead branches, and a small proportion of live crown [5].
Methods for establishing Monterey cypress in New Zealand are described
by Glass {10].
- 2. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1966. Ecological and taxonomic relationships of Cupressus in southern California. Los Angles, CA: California State College. 129 p. Thesis. [21332]
- 3. Armstrong, Wayne P. 1978. Southern California's vanishing cypresses. Fremontia. 6(2): 24-29. [22295]
- 5. Conkle, M. Thompson. 1987. Electrophoretic analysis of variation in native Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa Hartw.). In: Elias, Thomas S., ed. Conservation and management of rare and endangered plants: Proceedings of a California conference; [Date unknown]
- 7. Frankie, Gordon W.; Parmeter, J. R., Jr. 1972. A preliminary study of the relationship between Coryneum cardinale (Fungi imperfecti) & Laspeyresia cupressana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Plant Disease Reporter. 56(11): 992-994. [22636]
- 8. Frankie, Gordon W. 1973. Feeding habits and seasonal history of Ernobius conicola in cones of Monterey cypress with notes on cohabiting insects. Pan-Pacific Entomologist. 49(2): 102-109. [22634]
- 14. Johnson, LeRoy C. 1974. Cupressus L. cypress. In: Schopmeyer, C. S., technical coordinator. Seeds of woody plants in the United States. Agric. Handb. 450. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 363-369. [7599]
- 26. Sloss, V.; Brady, J. W. 1983. Abnormal births in cattle following ingestion of Cupressus macrocarpa foliage. Australian Veterinary Journal. 60(7): 223. [22633]
- 33. Vogl, Richard J.; Armstrong, Wayne P.; White, Keith L.; Cole, Kenneth L. 1977. The closed-cone pines and cypress. In: Barbour, Michael G.; Major, Jack, eds. Terrestrial vegetation of California. New York: John Wiley and Sons: 295-358. [7219]
Trusted
Conservation Actions
Conservation Actions
Both subpopulations are protected.
© International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources
Source:
IUCN
Trusted
Relevance to Humans and Ecosystems
Benefits
Wood Products Value
More info for the terms: density, natural
Monterey cypress wood is durable [10,11,22]. Natural durability of
heartwood of Monterey cypress is high, 10 to 15 years' ground life and
over 15 years above ground [22]. It is suitable for a wide range of
exterior uses including joinery, shingles, and boats. Possible interior
uses include moulding and panelling [11,22]. Cypress shelterbelts
provide good firewood. Most cypress species develop a large proportion
of heartwood, which splits well, dries quickly, and is clean burning.
Monterey cypress wood is moderately fast burning because of its low to
medium density [11,22]. As cypress woods are prone to sparking, they
are recommended only for enclosed fires [22].
Monterey cypress is planted in Africa and New Zealand for lumber and
pulp production [14].
Monterey cypress wood is durable [10,11,22]. Natural durability of
heartwood of Monterey cypress is high, 10 to 15 years' ground life and
over 15 years above ground [22]. It is suitable for a wide range of
exterior uses including joinery, shingles, and boats. Possible interior
uses include moulding and panelling [11,22]. Cypress shelterbelts
provide good firewood. Most cypress species develop a large proportion
of heartwood, which splits well, dries quickly, and is clean burning.
Monterey cypress wood is moderately fast burning because of its low to
medium density [11,22]. As cypress woods are prone to sparking, they
are recommended only for enclosed fires [22].
Monterey cypress is planted in Africa and New Zealand for lumber and
pulp production [14].
- 14. Johnson, LeRoy C. 1974. Cupressus L. cypress. In: Schopmeyer, C. S., technical coordinator. Seeds of woody plants in the United States. Agric. Handb. 450. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: 363-369. [7599]
- 22. Miller, J. T.; Knowles, F. B. 1990. Introduced forest trees in New Zealand: recognition, role and seed source. 9. The cypresses: Cupressus spp. and Chamaecyparis spp. FRI Bulletin 124/9. Christchurch, New Zealand: New Zealand Forest Service. 33 p. [21880]
- 10. Glass, Bruce P.; Hay, A. E.; Andrew, I. A. 1991. Establishment of Cupressus lusitanica Miller and C. macrocarpa Hartweg on two sites in New Zealand. In: FRI Bulletin 156. Rotorua, New Zealand: Forest Research Institute: 72-80. [22635]
- 11. Haslett, A. N. 1986. Properties and utilisation of exotic speciality timbers grown in New Zealand. Part III: Cypresses: Cahmaecyparis lawsoniana (A. Murr.) Parl. X Cupressocyparis leylandii (Jacks et Dall.) Dall.; Cupressus lusitanica Mill.; Cupressus macrocarpa Hartw. FRI Bulletin No. 119. Rotorua, New Zealand: New Zealand Forest Service, Forest Research Institute. 12 p. [22537]
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Other uses and values
Monterey cypress has been planted widely for ornament, hedges, and
windbreaks in the Pacific States, Europe, South America, Australia, New
Zealand, and the Falkland Islands [17,18,22].
windbreaks in the Pacific States, Europe, South America, Australia, New
Zealand, and the Falkland Islands [17,18,22].
- 17. Little, Elbert L., Jr.; Skomen, Roger G. 1989. Common forest trees of Hawaii (native and introduced). Agric. Handb. 679. Washington, DC: U.S Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. 321 p. [9433]
- 18. Low, Alan J. 1986. Tree planting in the Falkland Islands. Forestry. 59(1): 59-84. [9755]
- 22. Miller, J. T.; Knowles, F. B. 1990. Introduced forest trees in New Zealand: recognition, role and seed source. 9. The cypresses: Cupressus spp. and Chamaecyparis spp. FRI Bulletin 124/9. Christchurch, New Zealand: New Zealand Forest Service. 33 p. [21880]
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Importance to Livestock and Wildlife
Rodents and deer consume cypress seedlings. Cypress are considered
undesirable forage for livestock, although young plants are occasionally
browsed [34].
undesirable forage for livestock, although young plants are occasionally
browsed [34].
- 34. Wolf, Carl B.; Wagener, Willis W. 1948. The New World cypresses. El Aliso Series: Vol. 1. Anaheim, CA: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. 444 p. [20740]
Trusted
Wikipedia
Cupressus macrocarpa
"Macrocarpa" redirects here. For other uses, see Macrocarpa (disambiguation).
Cupressus macrocarpa, commonly known as Monterey cypress, is a species of cypress that is endemic to the Central Coast of California. The native range of the species was confined to two small relict populations, at Cypress Point in Pebble Beach and at Point Lobos near Carmel, California.[2] These two stands represent what was once a very large forest on the west coast. The living trees of these stands are as old as 2000 years.
Contents |
Description
Cupressus macrocarpa is a medium-sized coniferous evergreen tree, which often becomes irregular and flat-topped as a result of the strong winds that are typical of its native area. It grows to heights of up to 40m in perfect growing conditions, and its trunk diameter can reach 2.5m. The foliage grows in dense sprays, bright green in color. The leaves are scale-like, 2–5 mm long, and produced on rounded (not flattened) shoots; seedlings up to a year old have needle-like leaves 4–8 mm long.
The seed cones are globose to oblong, 20–40 mm long, with 6-14 scales, green at first, maturing brown about 20–24 months after pollination. The pollen cones are 3–5 mm long, and release their pollen in late winter or early spring.[3][4][5]
Along with other New World Cupressus species, it has recently been transferred to the genus Callitropsis, on genetic evidence that the New World Cupressus are not very closely related to the Old World Cupressus species.[6]
Distribution
The two native cypress forest stands are protected, within Point Lobos State Reserve and Del Monte Forest. The natural habitat is noted for its cool, moist summers, almost constantly bathed by sea fog.[3][4]
This species has been widely planted outside its native range, particularly along the coasts of California and Oregon. Its European distribution includes Great Britain (including the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands), France, Ireland, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Sicily.[7] In New Zealand, plantings have naturalized, finding conditions there more favorable than in its native range. It has also been grown experimentally as a timber crop in Kenya.[3][5]
Cultivation
Monterey cypress has been widely cultivated away from its native range, both elsewhere along the California coast, and in other areas with similar cool summer, mild winter oceanic climates. It is a popular private garden and public landscape tree in California.
When planted in areas with hot summers, for example in interior California away from the coastal fog belt, Monterey cypress has proved highly susceptible to cypress canker, caused by the fungus Seiridium cardinale and rarely survives more than a few years. This disease is not a problem where summers are cool.[8]
A number of cultivars have been selected for garden use, including 'Goldcrest', with yellow-green, semi-juvenile foliage (with spreading scale-leaf tips) and 'Lutea' with yellow-green foliage. 'Goldcrest' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[9]
Monterey cypress is one of the parents of the fast growing cultivated hybrid Leyland cypress, the other parent being Nootka cypress.[5]
The foliage is slightly toxic to livestock and can cause miscarriages in cattle.[10] Sawn logs are used, by many craftspeople, some boat builders and small manufacturers, as a furniture structural material and a decorative wood because of its fine colours. It is also a fast, hot burning, albeit sparky (therefore not suited to open fires), firewood.
In New Zealand, where it is almost always referred to as macrocarpa, it is most frequently grown as a windbreak tree on farms, usually in rows or shelter belts. It is also planted in New Zealand as an ornamental tree and, occasionally, as a timber tree. There, finding more favorable growing conditions than in its native range, and in the absence of many native pathogens, it often grows much larger, with trees recorded at over 40 m tall and 3 m in trunk diameter.[3][5] The timber was used for fence posts on New Zealand farms before electric fencing became popular.
Macrocarpa cultivars grown in New Zealand are:[11]
- Aurea Saligna—Long cascades of weeping, golden-yellow, thread-like foliage on a pyramidal tree
- Brunniana Aurea—Pillar or conical form with soft rich-golden foliage
- Gold Rocket—Narrow erect form with golden colouring, slow-growing
- Golden Pillar—Compact conical tree with dense yellow shoots and foliage
- Greenstead Magnificent—Dwarf form with blue-green foliage
- Lambertiana Aurea—Hardy upright form tolerating poor soil and climate conditions
 |  |
Chemistry
Isocupressic acid, a labdane diterpenoid, is an abortifacient component of C. macrocarpa.[12] Monoterpenes (α- and γ-terpinene and terpinolene) are constituents of the foliage volatile oil.[13] The oil exact composition is : α-pinene (20.2%), sabinene (12.0%), p-cymene (7.0%) and terpinen-4-ol (29.6%).[14] Unusual sesquiterpenes can be found in the foliage.[15] Longiborneol (also known as juniperol or macrocarpol) can also be isolated from Monterey cypresses.[16]
References
- ^ Conifer Specialist Group (1998). Cupressus macrocarpa. 2006. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. www.iucnredlist.org. Retrieved on 9 May 2006. Listed as Vulnerable (VU D2 v2.3)
- ^ C.Michael Hogan and Michael P. Frankis. 2009. Monterey Cypress: Cupressus macrocarpa, GlobalTwitcher.com ed. N. Stromberg
- ^ a b c d Farjon, A. (2005). Monograph of Cupressaceae and Sciadopitys. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. ISBN 1-84246-068-4
- ^ a b Flora of North America: Cupressus macrocarpa
- ^ a b c d Rushforth, K. (1987). Conifers. Helm ISBN 0-7470-2801-X.
- ^ Little, D. P. (2006). Evolution and circumscription of the true Cypresses. Syst. Bot. 31 (3): 461-480.
- ^ Flora Europaea
- ^ Wagener, W. W. (1948). Diseases of Cypresses. El Aliso 1: 253-321.
- ^ http://apps.rhs.org.uk/plantselector/plant?plantid=602
- ^ Sloss, V., & Brady, J. W. (1983). Abnormal births in cattle following ingestion of Cupressus macrocarpa foliage. Australian Veterinary Journal 60 (7): 223.
- ^ Palmer, Stanley J., Palmer's manual of Trees, Shrubs and Climbers ISBN 0-7316-9415-5
- ^ Isocupressic acid, an abortifacient component of Cupressus macrocarpa. K. Parton, D. Gardner and N.B. Williamson, New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 1996, Volume 44, Issue 3, doi:10.1080/00480169.1996.35946
- ^ Compositional variations of leaf monoterpenes in Cupressusmacrocarpa, C. pygmaea, C. goveniana, C. abramsiana and C. sargentii. Eugene Zavarin, Lorraine Lawrence and Mary C. Thomas, Phytochemistry, February 1971, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages 379–393, doi:10.1016/S0031-9422(00)94053-6
- ^ Volatile Constituents of Leaf Oils from the Cupressacea Family: Part I. Cupressus macrocarpa Hartw., C. arizonica Greene and C. torulosa Don Species Growing in Argentina. Rubén A. Malizia, Daniel A. Cardell, José S. Molli, Silvia González, Pedro E. Guerra and Ricardo J. Grau, Journal of Essential Oil Research, 2000, Volume 12, Issue 1, doi:10.1080/10412905.2000.9712042
- ^ Sesquiterpenes from Cupressus macrocarpa foliage. Laurence G. Cool, Phytochemistry, January 2005, Volume 66, Issue 2, Pages 249–260, doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2004.11.002
- ^ Total Syntheses of (+)-Longicamphor and (+)-Longiborneol. Steven C. Welch and Roland L. Walters, Synthetic Communications: An International Journal for Rapid Communication of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, 1973, Volume 3, Issue 6, pages 419-423, doi:10.1080/00397917308065935
 | Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Cupressus macrocarpa |
Source:
Wikipedia
Unreviewed
Notes
Comments
The geographically most restricted taxon recognized here, Cupressus macrocarpa is confined today to two picturesque groves near Monterey, but it is also known from fossils to have been in other regions. It is much planted and commonly naturalized near the coast from central California north to Washington and in warm temperate and subtropical regions worldwide.
© Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO, 63110 USA
Source:
Missouri Botanical Garden
Trusted
Names and Taxonomy
Taxonomy
Comments: As a native species, known only from the Monterey area of coastal California, but widely cultivated as an ornamental (Little, 1979).
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