Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich. - Swamp Cypress

Distribution:
An occasional planted tree. Locations include Ince Blundell Woods (SD3202, I Richardson, 1982, PS Gateley, 1989); Calderstones Park (SJ4087, C Twist, 1992); Knowsley (SJ4596, Anon., 1989); Knowsley (SJ49N, PS Gateley, 1999); Worden Park Pinetum (SD52F, CS Crook, 1996).

Habitat:
Ornamental plantings within parks, ornamental woodland and cemeteries.

Comments:
Neophyte, planted, native to the swamplands of the south-eastern states of the USA. It is thought that this species has been confused with Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Dawn Redwood) and so a review of Taxodium/Metasequoia trees planted in several parklands and amenity areas is to be undertaken.

Identification:
A deciduous tree. The leaves on the short shoots are sessile to sub-sessile, alternative to each other and 1-2mm wide.