Lawson Cypress

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana

415 S. 14th Street

Lawson cypress, or Port Orford cedar, is native of southwestern Oregon to northwestern California. It was introduced to cultivation in 1864. It is commonly grown and easily propagated, and currently more than 50 cultivars are known to exist. Many cultivars lose their distinctive attributes gradually over the years, and become difficult to identify.

This tree has a naturally pyramidal shape. The lower limbs were removed to expose the many trunks unique to this specimen. The male catkins are crimson red in spring; the female fruits are pea sized, bluish-green at first then turning to reddish-brown.

Lawson cypress are very handsome trees with beautiful foliage and a graceful habit. This species is fast growing and can reach over 200 feet in its natural habitat.

Nominated by: Otto Braun