Tecate Cypress
(Cupressus forbesii )
Cupressaceae

Photo Copyright 2001 Dr. Louis Emmet Mahoney

Description: Small multi-trunked, evergreen tree less than 32 feet tall, with irregular spreading crown. Bark is cherry-red or mahogany colored, smooth, and peels in thin pieces. Leaves are light to dull green, 1/16 inch (1.5mm) long, without resin on the outer leaf surface. The pollen cone is 1/8 inch (3-4mm) long, about 1/16 inch (2mm) wide, with 12-14 scales, and 3-5 pollen sacs per scale. The seed cone is 3/4 - 1 1/8 inches (20-32mm) in diameter, sperical, dull brown or gray, and has 6-10 scales. Seeds are 1/8 - 1/4 inch (3-6mm) long, and dark brown.

Distribution:

Habitat: Chaparral, dry slopes. Elevation 816 - 4800 feet.

Flowering Period: Cones not opening up for many years.

Similar Plants:

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 1B