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Zoltán Stekkelpak

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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 30 days

Germination: sow seed 1/16" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: seed can be treated with Captan (4 tablespoons/gallon of water) during stratification to prevent fungal problems

Native to: Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Nicaragua

Introduced to: East Himalaya, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Great Britain, Hawaii, Italy, Juan Fernández Is., Norfolk Is., Portugal, Spain, St.Helena, Sudan, Trinidad-Tobago

Native

Introduced

Cupressus lusitanicaCupressus lusitanica

Cedar-of-Goa, Mexican Cypress, Mexican White Cedar

In Stock: 5.928 lb (Total:7.329lb)

Cupressus lusitanica

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1.4 lb

5.93 lb

Details

Germination:

53%

Germination test:

Cut (Full Seed)

Purity:

99%

Seeds per lb:

79,497

Quantity:

5.93 lb

Collected in:

Guatemala

Crop year:

2022

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

1831270

Characteristics

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 30 days

Germination: sow seed 1/16" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: seed can be treated with Captan (4 tablespoons/gallon of water) during stratification to prevent fungal problems

Native to: Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Nicaragua

Introduced to: East Himalaya, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Great Britain, Hawaii, Italy, Juan Fernández Is., Norfolk Is., Portugal, Spain, St.Helena, Sudan, Trinidad-Tobago

Native

Introduced

Cupressus lusitanica, commonly referred to as Cedar-of-Goa, Mexican Cypress, or Mexican White Cedar, is a versatile and attractive tree known for its rapid growth and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for both ornamental and practical purposes. Native to the highlands of Mexico and Central America, this robust evergreen can grow up to 30-50 feet tall and features a distinctive broad, pyramidal crown with pendulous branches. Its lovely blue-green, fern-like foliage adds elegance to any landscape, while its dense structure makes it an ideal windbreak.

Widely popular as an ornamental and timber tree, Cupressus lusitanica thrives in USDA Zone 7, adapting well to a variety of soils, including nutrient-poor carbonate or volcanic substrates. Its globose cones and thick, reddish-brown bark with longitudinal fissures contribute to its unique aesthetic. Additionally, this species serves as a great option for Christmas trees in warmer climates due to its symmetrical, conical shape when pruned correctly.

Beyond its visual appeal, C. lusitanica provides practical benefits such as excellent wind protection when planted densely in rows, capable of withstanding strong winds once established. It also offers multiple landscape uses, including as a specimen tree, privacy screen, hedge, or even bonsai. The species has a long history of cultivation, first introduced to Europe from Portugal in the 17th century, and remains a horticultural favorite across the globe. Whether for beauty, windbreak, or timber, Cupressus lusitanica remains a valued choice in diverse ecosystems.