Cypress
Captured from the historical species datasheet.
At a glance
Scientific nameCupressus sempervirens
Trade / common nameCypress
FamilyCupressaceae
RegionSouthern Europe · Southern Asia · Western Asia · Northern Africa · Western Europe
Distribution
Due to the long horticultural history of this species in the Mediterranean region, its original native distribution is unclear; perhaps the question is pointless, as widespread human alteration of natural environments in the region has occurred across a time span featuring substantial climate changes. Various authorities attribute its native distribution to Greece (some Aegaean islands), Turkey, Crete, N Iran, Lebanon, and Syria; and perhaps Cyprus (which would only be appropriate). In N Africa, it may be native to Tunisia and N Libya. Currently, it can be found growing in cultivation or locally naturalized throughout the entire Mediterranean region. Moreover, the existence of C. atlantica (regarded by many as a subspecies of C. sempervirens) in Morocco and C. dupreziana in Algeria suggests that
Uses
Exterior uses, Shipbuilding, Structural work, Trunks, Utility furniture, Wardrobes
Countries & Distribution
These country connections come directly from the same SQL country–species bridge used by Country Detail and the Global Navigator.
Wood images
Linked historical images associated with this species record.
Cypress
Captured from the historical species datasheet.
Projects & Inspiration
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Appearance
Heartwood color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
Brown
Red
Yellow
Pink
Orange
Purple
Green/grey
Orange to pinkish-brown
Wood surface is usually scattered with knots
Sapwood Color
Historical source observations are shown separately; differences may reflect source, geography, test condition or publication.
White
Yellow
Brown
Red
Uses & Applications
Common Uses
Exterior uses, Shipbuilding, Structural work, Trunks, Utility furniture, Wardrobes
Full Technical Species Profile
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