Picturesque, Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey Cypress) is a fast-growing, large evergreen conifer of narrow and pyramidal habit in youth, becoming wide-spreading and irregular with age. Its foliage is rich dark green through the seasons and is not resinous. The ravishing bark is pale reddish-brown with shallow ridges, splitting into grayish, scaly plates. The globose, shining greenish-brown cones, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), are usually solitary, on a short, thick stalk. Native to the Central Coast of California, Monterey Cypress has a high wind tolerance, becoming increasingly more attractive under heavy wind conditions. It is extensively planted in the coastal districts of southern Australia as a barrier against the 'Roaring Forties' winds.

• Grows up to 40-70 ft. tall (12-21 m) and 20-80 ft. wide (6-24 m).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates dry conditions.
• Perfect as a specimen plant, hedges, and screens, Mediterranean gardens, or coastal gardens. Makes an excellent windshield in coastal areas.
• Low maintenance, no pruning required.
• Susceptible to coryneum canker when grown inland away from cool coastal winds.
• Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to California.