Cordia alliodora
Cordia alliodora · Cordiaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around cordia alliodora and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Cypress Wood
- Family
- Cordiaceae
- Type
- Tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-persistent
- Flowering
- Spring to summer, cream-white flowers
- Mature size
- 15 to 25 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tropical, freezes below 10 °C
- Origin
- Central and South America
Care
Light and exposure
Cypress wood thrives in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of daily sunlight for optimal growth and good fruiting. In tropical or subtropical regions, protection from intense midday rays may be beneficial during the first years.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth phase, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, the tree tolerates moderate dry periods. Reduce watering in winter or dry season to prevent root rot.
Soil and drainage
Plant in well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Cypress wood adapts to various soil types but prefers substrates rich in organic matter. Improve poor soil by adding compost or potting soil at planting.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer (NPK) in spring and summer during the first three years. Once well established, annual compost or slow-release fertilizer application is sufficient to support growth. Avoid excess nitrogen which favors foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and training
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a harmonious shape and remove dead or poorly oriented branches. On young trees, structure the branching by maintaining a central leader. Avoid severe pruning which weakens the tree and reduces fruiting.
Pests and diseases
In warm, humid climates, watch for scale insects and spider mites. Good air circulation and regular hygiene reduce risks. The tree is generally robust; poor drainage promotes root rot, the main risk in cultivation.
Did you know?
Cypress wood produces dense, hard and durable wood, highly valued in tropical carpentry and joinery. Its common name 'cypress wood' likely comes from the majestic and pyramidal form of the mature tree, reminiscent of Mediterranean cypresses. In Central America, it is also called *canalete* or *laurel* and remains a highly valued timber species for its multiple uses.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- CamelliaCamellia japonica
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.