Arizona cypress

Cupressus arizonica

Shielding the heat with shadows.

Tree16.5×5 mzone 7–10light shade

Profile

Family: Cupressaceae
Habit: Tree
Height: 16.5 m
Spread: 5 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 95 years
First yield: after 6 years
Hardiness: zone 7–10
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam
Soil moisture: very dry – moist
pH: 5.5 – 8.3
Planned in gardens: 7×

evergreensuitable for hedges

Uses

Medicinal5 of 10

Other uses7 of 10

Medicinal: The fruits can be used as a cooling light cleanser or moisturizer for the skin. They also serve as a first-aid treatment for burns and abrasions. The flowers have expectorant and emetic properties. The fruit aids digestion. The seed acts as a cough suppressant, aids digestion, reduces fever, and is vermifugal. When used as a vermifuge, the whole seed, including the seed coat, is ground into fine powder, mixed with water to form an emulsion, and consumed. It is then necessary to take a laxative to expel tapeworms or other parasites from the body. The root is diuretic and emetic.

Origin & habitat

Southwestern North America - California to Texas and New Mexico, south to Mexico.

Rocky slopes and dry, warm forests.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

Probably toxic due to its essential oils, as with all cypresses.

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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