Other Names: common bald cypress, Southern cypress, white cypress, red cypress, and swamp cypress. It is called “bald” because it drops its leaves in the fall while other types of cypress trees are evergreen. It was sometimes called the “tree of death” in the ancient world.
Number of Species: 3 species of bald cypress, 16 species of the family Taxodiaceae, and over 140 species in the cypress family
Family: Taxodiaceae—now included in the family Cupressaceae (cypress)
Genus/Species: Taxodium distichum
Leaf: Deciduous conifer with single needles growing in two rows on the twig, pointed tip, and feather-like
Bark: Brown to gray with fibers that peel off in strips
Fruit: Green cone that turns brown when mature, either single cones or small clusters near the end of the branch
Magickal Properties and Lore: Healing, longevity, protection. Wood, when carried, prolongs life and makes a good wand for healing and clearing an area. Burned leaves are said to welcome the spirits. A wand of bald cypress, juniper, or any other cypress can also be used for rituals regarding financial matters. Cypress can be used at times of crisis and grief, such as death, to bring comfort and ease of mind and heart.
Practical Uses: Wood is resistant to decay, insects, and water and has been used to build boats and bridges. This tree can live hundreds and hundreds of years. Egyptians used cypress wood to make coffins.
Medicinal Properties: The resin in the cones of the tree have analgesic properties and can be used to treat burns and minor wounds. It is said that the Aztecs used the resin from the tree for this very purpose.