Scientific Name
Other Names
Life Form
Synonyms
Family
Ornamental - The tree is utilized as an ornamental tree, for windbreaks, and timber.
United States
It grows near the coast and is tolerant of strong winds and salty conditions, preferring well-drained soil.
The natural population of this species is very limited and at the risk of fire. The foliage is slightly toxic to livestock.
It is an evergreen conifer tree, reaching a height of 20-30 meters, with an irregular crown.
The trunk is erect and often twisted, with a reddish-brown bark that develops deep fissures with age. Branching is irregular, forming a broad, rounded crown.
Leaves are small, scale-like, and tightly pressed against the stem. They are dark green and release a citrusy fragrance when crushed. Leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, creating a flattened spray-like appearance.
The tree bears inconspicuous, unisexual, small cones. The male cones are yellow and produce pollen, while the female cones are green and develop into larger, woody cones.
The mature cone is woody and rounded, measuring 2-4 cm in diameter. It starts green when young and matures to a brown color. Each cone contains numerous winged seeds.
Male cone: January-February Female cone: January-February Mature cone: Mature over two years, with seed release occurring in the second year