7. Swamp Cypress

Taxodium distichum

Swamp cypress is a conifer native to the southeastern US. Named for its preference for wetter growing areas, such as riverbanks or wetlands, swamp cypress is a large adaptable species with a pointed crown that can reach heights of 30 metres in the UK. Unlike most coniferous trees, T. distichium is deciduous; this gymnosperm loses its needle-like, feathery leaves during the autumn and regrows them in the spring, turning a distinct orange-red colour during the autumn months and then a deep brown once dying off. This tree can often be confused for the Dawn Redwood – its leaves are similar but T. distichium’s grow on alternating sides of the shoot rather than opposite like that of the Dawn Redwood. The bark feels soft and slightly spongy, depending on the amount of water it has absorbed; when the leaves are broken, they emit an earthy, woody scent.

Swamp cypress was originally introduced into the UK in the early 1600s by plant hunters. It quickly became a staple of British parks and gardens for its tall, striking shape and colourful autumn foliage; one of its original planting sites was in Lambeth, alongside other American tree species in botanist John Tradescant’s botanical garden. The trees live exceptionally long and are considered living fossils; in the UK, ancient 300-year-old swamp cypress trees can be found at Syon House in Brentford.

This tree is noted for its durable timber and general hardiness. It adapts well to drier conditions and is resistant to root rot. Structures that are submerged in water or located on riverbanks can often make use of this wood, as it is very water-resistant, growing well even when the trunk is immersed in water. The tree also holds historical medicinal importance – traditionally, various parts of the tree were boiled in use for fevers or other skin ailments. In various cultures, the tree remains a symbol of protection and healing, as well as continued endurance.

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