Chinese Swamp Cypress

Botanical Name: Glyptostrobus pencilis

Common Name: Chinese Swamp Cypress

This native of South East China is a rare species in cultivation in the British Isles.This example was identified in 2004 as another potential 'Champion Tree' set to outgrow a larger example in Ireland.

Origins
  • Glyptostrobus pensilis, commonly known as the Chinese swamp cypress, is native to southeastern China and northern Vietnam.
  • It typically grows in swampy or flooded areas, often along riverbanks.
History
  • This species has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. Various parts of the tree have been employed for their supposed medicinal properties.
  • Historically, the wood has been used for construction, furniture, and boat building.
Conservation Status
  • Glyptostrobus pensilis is listed as endangered due to habitat loss, logging, and changes in land use.
  • Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve the remaining populations of this species.
Botanical Interest
  • Glyptostrobus pensilis is botanically interesting due to its unique features, including buttressed trunks and distinctive, spirally arranged leaves.

While facing conservation challenges, Glyptostrobus pensilis remains significant for its ecological role and historical uses in traditional medicine and craftsmanship.

Map

Please see the map below for tree locations and routes around the park. Click to enlarge the map. 

Map of Trees

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