Chinese Weeping Cypress

(Cupressus funebris)

Chinese Weeping Cypress (Cupressus funebris)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Cupressus funebris, commonly known as Chinese Weeping Cypress, is an evergreen tree native to the limestone hills and mountains of central and western China. It is a medium-sized coniferous tree that can grow to 20–35 meters tall, with a trunk up to 2 meters in diameter. The foliage of Chinese Weeping Cypress is distinctive, forming dense sprays of bright green, very slender, slightly flattened shoots that are moderately decumbent and pendulous, giving the tree its characteristic weeping appearance. The tree does not typically produce conspicuous flowers or fruits, but its form and foliage texture are highly ornamental.

Chinese Weeping Cypress is valued for its graceful weeping habit, which makes it a striking focal point in landscapes. It is often used in gardens, public parks, and as a houseplant or conservatory tree in colder climates where it cannot survive outdoors. This species is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage, and it requires low to medium amounts of water once established. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to cypress canker, a disease that causes branch dieback. In some regions, such as California, it is important to monitor for potential invasiveness, as it can spread beyond intended planting areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-75 feet
  • Width: 20-45 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Limestone hills and mountains of central and western China

Other Names

Common Names: Mourning-Cypress, Chinese Weeping Chamaecyparis, Mourning Cypress, Trauer-Zypresse, Tårcypress, Bai Mu

Scientific Names: , Cupressus funebris, Callitropsis funebris, Chamaecyparis funebris, Cupressus funebris var. gracilis, Platycyparis funebris,

GBIF Accepted Name: Cupressus funebris Endl.