Cupressus Bonsai Care guidelines
The Cupressus requires full sunlight for the majority of the day, with good airflow to prevent fungal diseases. The Macrocarpa species is native to the coastlines of California and can withstand wind very well, whereas the Sempervirens needs a little protection from the wind.
Water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Place the Cupressus in a well draining, inorganic bonsai substrate. Continue reading about watering Bonsai trees.
Watering
Free lecture from the Beginners Course
Watch Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring through fall). We usually recommend an organic fertilizer, like Biogold.
Prune regularly to maintain the desired shape and encourage a dense foliage. Continue reading about pruning Bonsai trees.
Repot every two to three years in early spring before new growth begins. Make sure to use a very well draining substrate, of Akadama, Pumice and Lava rock in equal parts. Continue reading about repotting Bonsai trees.
The Cupressus (both the Italian and the Monterey cypress) can be propagate through cuttings or seeds. Take semi-hardwood cuttings during the growing season and root them in a suitable medium. Seeds can be collected from mature cones.
Watch for common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. With enough air flow and proper Bonsai substrate, the Cupresses is not very susceptible to pests. For more detailed information on these techniques, check out our Bonsai tree care section.
Cupressus macrocarpa Bonsai, the Monterey Cypress
Cupressus sempervirens, or Italian Cypress
General information about the Cupressus Bonsai tree
The Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey cypress) is native to the coast of California, and has bright green foliage which spreads into a broad canopy, often shaped by strong winds along the coastline. It is know for its gnarled trunks.
The Cupressus sempervirens (Italian cypress) is native to the Mediterranean, and is well known for its tall columnar shape (often seens on driveways to old Italian farmhouses).
Header photo was shared from the Bonsai Society of San Francisco. If you need help identifying your tree, take a look at our Bonsai tree identification guide.
