Monterey Cypress, Hesperocyparis macrocarpa
The Monterey Cypress is easily one of my all-time “favorite” trees. It takes so many different forms and shapes, and because of its appearance, it looks like an exceedingly ancient tree, and almost looks like it was pulled out of a fairy tale.
The Monterey Cypress is only endemic to a few very small locations in the entire world, which are in and around the Monterey/Carmel area. However, in modern times it has been planted all over the world, with a notable population of Monterey Cypress being found in New Zealand.
In the Monterey area, one will find these trees all over, as they can be found on streets, near the coast, on the hills of Monterey, on 17-mile drive, in Pebble Beach, in Carmel, or elsewhere. They are the most iconic tree of the local area. Point Lobos and an area along 17-mile drive both contain small stands or groves of Monterey Cypress which I believe are old growth.
Point Lobos, Cypress Grove
Point Lobos
Brown Pelican sitting atop a Monterey Cypress in Point Lobos, just as Brown Pelicans filled they entire sky
More Pelicans sitting atop a Monterey Cypress
Point Lobos, Cypress Grove trail
Lace lichen (Ramalina menziesii) on a Monterey Cypress tree - not to be confused with Spanish Moss, which is only naturally found in the Southeastern United States and the surrounding area
Mature seed cones and foliage of Monterey Cypress. The seed cones will open when they are ready to release their seeds.
Green, not mature seed cones
Lover's Point
Monterey Cypress in Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove