Swamp Vs. Pond Cypress Trees

Morphology

• Pond cypress has a narrower crown, more columnar form and open habit than does bald cypress. In addition, pond cypress bark is thicker, shaggier and more coarsely ridged than that of bald cypress, which is thought to provide the species an additional degree of fire resistance. Bald cypress grows larger than pond cypress and is more likely to develop vertical root portions, known as knees. If pond cypress does develop knees, they are rounder and shorter than those of the bald cypress.

Habitat

• Both pond cypress and bald cypress grow in flooded areas. Despite this, they are suited for habitats quite distinct from one another. Pond cypress occurs naturally in shallow ponds and along the edges of swamps and low-flow streams in low-nutrient soils. Bald cypress prefers sites with moderate water flow and higher nutrient concentrations, such as rivers and springs. While pond cypress tolerates frequent water draw-downs, bald cypress prefers a more stable water level with seasonal fluctuations.

Geographic Distribution

• The two species' distribution overlaps within the Southeastern United States. Bald cypress trees are more widespread . Pond cypress is found in shallow ponds and wetlands as far west as southeastern Louisiana and as far north as Virginia. Bald cypress distribution extends as far north as Indiana and as far west as Texas. It also grows farther inland following rivers and floodplains into parts of Oklahoma, Missouri and Illinois.

Landscape Use

• Both cypress types are excellent, relatively underused low-maintenance specimen or street trees. Even without pruning, they develop straight trunks with single central leaders. Moreover, their delicate green foliage turns reddish-brown in the late fall. While these trees are adapted to waterlogged conditions, they thrive in most soil types. When placed near water, cypress sometimes develops knees, which pose a lawn mowing maintenance challenge. Bald cypress is more likely to produce these structures than is pond cypress.