Cupressus arizonica
Arizona cypress is a drought tolerant, evergreen tree native to the southwestern United
States. In the landscape it usually reaches a height of only 20’ to 25’ and 15’ wide.
The foliage can be a gray-green but usually blue-foliage and recently yellow foliage
forms are available in the trade. ‘Blue Ice’ and ‘Carolina Sapphire’ are common cultivars
and ‘Cookes Peak’ is a selection from Cookes Peak, New Mexico with silvery-blue foliage
and pyramidal form (see photograph). Arizona cypress require well-drained soil and
thrive in hot, dry environments. As the tree ages, the bark exfoliates beautifully
becoming mottled with patches of burnt orange and green.
Exposure: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained
Hardiness: USDA Zone 7