Montezuma Cypress

The Ancient Cypress of Mexico

The Montezuma Cypress (Taxodium mucronatum), also called Montezuma Bald Cypress, is a beautiful semi-evergreen tree related to our native Bald Cypress but better adapted to San Antonio’s climate. With a graceful pyramidal form and feathery foliage, it makes a stunning shade tree. Alfaro Tree Sales grows Montezuma Cypress at our 40-acre Atascosa nursery.

2–3 ft/yr
Growth Rate
40–60 ft
Mature Height
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Since ’76
Growing & Planting
Sun
Full Sun
Water
Moderate–High
Growth
2–3 ft/yr
Mature Height
40–60 ft
Foliage
Semi-Evergreen
Semi-Evergreen Cypress
Semi-Evergreen

Semi-Evergreen Cypress

Unlike the native Bald Cypress which drops all its needles in winter, the Montezuma Cypress is semi-evergreen — keeping most of its soft, feathery green foliage through San Antonio’s mild winters.

Semi-evergreen (keeps foliage in mild winters) Graceful pyramidal form Tolerates wet and dry conditions Field-grown at our 40-acre nursery

Montezuma Cypress vs. Bald Cypress

Two related cypress species for SA landscapes.

Recommended

Montezuma Cypress

Growth Rate2–3 ft/yr
FoliageSemi-evergreen
Mature Height40–60 ft
FormPyramidal to spreading
DroughtModerate
KneesRarely

Bald Cypress

Growth Rate2–3 ft/yr
FoliageDeciduous
Mature Height50–70 ft
FormPyramidal
DroughtModerate
KneesCommon near water

Growth Timeline

Expected height after planting a 4” caliper tree (16–20 ft at install).

18 ft
Planting
25 ft
Year 3
35 ft
Year 7
Full form
50 ft
Year 15+
Mature

Care After Planting

Watering

Regular watering the first 2 seasons. Tolerates wet conditions but also handles moderate drought once established. Appreciates consistent moisture.

Soil & Fertilizer

Adapts to most soil types, even temporarily wet soils. Balanced fertilizer in spring supports growth.

Pruning

Minimal pruning needed. Develops a naturally beautiful form. Remove dead or crossing branches in winter.

Best Planting Time

October through March. Excellent choice near ponds, pools, or rain gardens.

Our Planting Process

1

Select & Deliver

Choose your tree at our nursery or by phone. We deliver it to your property.

2

Plant & Mulch

Machine-dug hole, native soil backfill, deep watering, and mulch ring installed.

3

Follow-Up

Written care instructions plus a 30-day establishment check from our crew.

Sun
Full Sun
Water
Moderate–High
Growth Rate
2–3 ft/yr
Mature Height
40–60 ft
Canopy Spread
30–40 ft
Foliage
Semi-Evergreen
Foliage
Semi-Evergreen
Native Range
Mexico & S. Texas
Soil
Any / Tolerates Wet
Best For
Shade, Water Features
Category
Shade
Nursery
40 Acres, Atascosa TX

2–3 feet per year in San Antonio, reaching 35–45 feet within 15 years.

Related but different. Montezuma Cypress is semi-evergreen (keeps foliage in mild winters), while Bald Cypress drops all needles. Montezuma is also better adapted to SA’s heat.

Rarely. Unlike Bald Cypress, Montezuma Cypress seldom develops knee-like root projections, making them more practical for landscape use.

Moderately. They prefer consistent moisture but handle dry periods once established. Best near water features or with regular irrigation.

October through March is ideal.

We offer Montezuma Cypress in various sizes. Field-grown at our nursery in Atascosa. Call (210) 202-4284.

Yes. Professional delivery and planting across the SA metro. Request a free quote.

Yes — they’re an excellent poolside tree. The semi-evergreen foliage means less litter than deciduous trees, and they don’t typically develop invasive surface roots.