The genus Taxodium includes three species of beautiful trees with finely cut leaves, interesting peeling bark, and nice autumn color. They are native to swamps, bogs, and river margins from the southeastern U.S. to Guatemala. Their form is upright and conical, and they are late to come into leaf. Grow as specimen trees in wet areas.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsGood fall color. Likes moist or wet soil. Produce aerial roots or "knees" at water level.
CareTolerant of most any soil that is moist to wet and preferably acidic, in full or partial shade.
PropagationSow seed in a cold frame in spring; graft cultivars in late winter.
ProblemsGenerally easy to grow, but leaf spot, bark beetle, and wood rot can occur.
