About

Fitzroya cupressoides, the Patagonian cypress, is a large, slow-growing, long-lived evergreen conifer from the Andes of Chile and Argentina reaching around 25 m in cultivation � considerably taller in its native habitat where it is one of the oldest living trees. Conical in outline, with peeling, reddish-brown bark, drooping branches and scale-like, dark-green leaves to 6 mm banded white, borne in threes. Small, globose cones to 8 mm across ripen from green to brown. A magnificent and rare specimen for a large, sheltered garden.

About the genus

Fitzroya cupressoides, the Patagonian cypress, is the largest tree species in South America and one of the longest-lived organisms on Earth. A slow-growing, evergreen conifer with peeling reddish-brown bark and pendulous branch tips, it is a remarkable and rarely seen specimen tree for large, sheltered gardens.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeConifers, Trees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toChile, S Argentina

Care notes

CultivationGrows best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from strong winds to prevent damage to mature branches
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or from semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free