Cupressus goveniana, commonly known as Gowen Cypress, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the coastal and serpentine soils in the central coast of California, particularly in Monterey County. It is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. Gowen Cypress typically grows to a height of 3-15 feet (0.9-4.5 meters) and a width of 3-18 feet (0.9-5.5 meters), with a variable form that can be upright or sprawling. The foliage is dense with a blue-green color, and the bark is fibrous and reddish-brown. The seed cones are initially green, maturing to brown or gray-brown about 20–24 months after pollination. They are notable for their serotinous nature, opening to release seeds only after being exposed to the heat of a wildfire.

Gowen Cypress is valued for its adaptability to poor soils and its use in native plant gardens, where it provides habitat for local wildlife. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and as a windbreak due to its dense growth habit. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun with low water needs and well-drained soils. While not commonly available in the nursery trade, it can be a unique addition to a drought-tolerant landscape. Potential problems include cypress canker disease and limited genetic diversity, which can make populations vulnerable to environmental stresses.CC BY-SA 4.0