How to Identify Cypress Logs

Cypress trees grow along the southern coast and inland regions. The tree produces cypressine oil, which acts as a natural preservative, repelling water and making the wood durable and resistant to harsh weather, fungus, and insects. Cypress logs are a good choice for log homes, porches, furniture, or outbuildings. It cuts easily and resists splitting, warping, cracking and splintering. If left unfinished, the logs turn a pale pewter shade over time. Several characteristics aid identification of cypress logs.

Instructions

- 1
  Look for the absence of pores on freshly cut logs. Cypress is a softwood, and the pores, alignment of cells and structure are only visible with magnification.
- 2
  Touch the cut section of the log. Cypress logs feel oily or waxy when you touch the wood grain.
- 3
  Look for a tan to brown color on the cut portion of the log. The color may resemble light to dark-colored honey.
- 4
  Observe whether the cut section of the log has wavy patterns in a reddish-purple color. This indicates summerwood of the cypress tree.
- 5
  Look for a fluted or bell-bottomed shape if the log is from the base of the tree.
- 6
  Identify the leaves on any branches still attached to the log. Cypress trees have green, feathery, needle-like leaves. They turn a reddish-brown color in the autumn before they fall off the branches.
- 7
  Look for the coarse, grey-colored bark to identify the cypress log.

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