Menu
+ Add
California Native Plant

Hesperocyparis forbesii

Tecate Cypress

Plant photo of: Hesperocyparis forbesii
Previous Photo      Next Photo
Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer:

 

Description

Tecate Cypress (Hesperocyparis forbesii) is a very dense California native tree. Typically, the tree has low multi-trunks that spread horizontally and reach a mature height of 25' tall and wide. It has fragrant leaves and green, brown, or gray cones in the fall. It is not recommended for small- or medium-sized gardens due to the amount of space it needs. Larger properties that are looking for a privacy screen or a windbreak will find that this is a great choice. If this tree is planted in an area where it can reach its full size, it will require very little maintenance. It is fairly drought-tolerant but can thrive with more water than many other drought-tolerant species. If it is not given enough room to reach its full potential, it will require pruning to manage its size, but the natural shape will be lost in the process. A licensed arborist should be hired to do any pruning on this tree. This tree should be planted at least five feet away from any hardscape areas and 10 feet from structures such as houses and buildings. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about three feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Conifer

Height Range

25-40'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

Green, Grey, Red

Fruit Color

Brown, Green

Fruit Season

Fall

Leaf Season

Sun

Full

Water

Very Low, Extra in Summer

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

Soil Condition

Poor

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Messy

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

Multi-trunk Tree, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Park, Roadside

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Wind Break, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Butterflies, Wildlife

Water Saving Tip:

Weather changes - so should your watering schedule. Be sure to make seasonal watering adjustments at a minimum.