Fitzroya cupressoides
Patagonian cypress
A large conical tree with peeling red-brown bark reaching a height of approximately 25m but grows considerably larger in its native habitat where it is a long-lived, slow-growing tree. The scale-like, green leaves to 6mm long are banded white and borne in threes in sprays on the large, drooping branches. Small, globose cones to 8mm across made up of nine scales ripen from green to brown
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown Red | Green | Brown Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Red | Green | Brown Green | |
| Autumn | Brown Red | Green | Brown Green | |
| Winter | Brown Red | Green | Brown Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Cupressaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Fitzroya are a genus of large trees with one particular species, FItzroya cupressoides, being the largest tree species in South America. They can grow up to 15m with a trunk diameter of up to 5m.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Chile, S Argentina
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from strong winds to prevent damage to mature branches
Propagation
Propagate by seed or from semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.